Forbes World’s Black Billionaires 2025: 6 African Tycoons Making an Impact

BY ELLE NKOSI
4 days ago
4 min read

The global landscape of wealth is continuously evolving, and 2025's Forbes World’s Black Billionaires list showcases an inspiring collection of individuals whose business acumen and determination have earned them places among the world’s wealthiest. This year, six African entrepreneurs have secured their positions, highlighting the growing economic influence of the African continent on a global scale. From telecom to energy, cement, and mining, these remarkable individuals have built empires, broken barriers, and created legacies that inspire not only on the African continent but across the world.

Africa has long been a region of untapped potential, with vast resources and a young, dynamic workforce. These six billionaires are not just symbols of wealth but embodiments of Africa's economic future, driving industries forward with visionary leadership. Their journeys represent both personal triumphs and the broader transformation of Africa's business landscape. Their influence extends beyond just financial success—they are catalysts for change, spurring innovation, job creation, and social development across the continent. As Forbes highlights their achievements, it’s clear that the continent is no longer just a place for opportunity, but a hub for wealth creation that rivals any part of the world.

This year’s list serves as a testament to the resilience, ambition, and brilliance of African entrepreneurs, whose stories are shaping the future of not only Africa but the global economy. Let’s take a closer look at these six titans of industry who have made history on the 2025 Forbes World’s Black Billionaires list.

1. Aliko Dangote – Net Worth: $23.9 Billion

Source of Wealth: Cement, Sugar | Citizenship: Nigeria

Aliko Dangote is Africa’s wealthiest individual, with a staggering net worth of $23.9 billion. As the founder and CEO of Dangote Group, his ventures span cement, sugar, and most notably, oil and gas. The completion of the Dangote Refinery in early 2024 marked a monumental achievement for both Dangote and Nigeria. After over a decade of work and $23 billion in investment, the refinery has the potential to reshape Africa’s energy landscape, significantly boosting Dangote’s fortune by $10.5 billion in just one year.

2. Mike Adenuga – Net Worth: $6.8 Billion

Source of Wealth: Telecom, Oil | Citizenship: Nigeria

Mike Adenuga’s journey to wealth began at the young age of 26 when he made his first $1 million trading commodities. Today, Adenuga is a titan of the telecom and oil industries. As the founder of Globacom, one of Nigeria’s largest mobile phone networks, and Conoil, an oil exploration company, Adenuga is one of the richest individuals in Africa. His success story underscores the potential of African entrepreneurs to compete on the global stage.

3. Abdulsamad Rabiu – Net Worth: $5.1 Billion

Source of Wealth: Cement, Sugar | Citizenship: Nigeria

Abdulsamad Rabiu, the founder of BUA Group, has significantly impacted the cement, sugar, and real estate industries in Nigeria. Since establishing the company in 1988, Rabiu has overseen its growth into a conglomerate with a vast network of businesses. His leadership has earned him recognition as one of the wealthiest Africans. Through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Initiative, he has committed substantial resources to supporting education, health, and social development projects across the continent, further solidifying his legacy as both a businessman and philanthropist.

4. Patrice Motsepe – Net Worth: $3 Billion

Source of Wealth: Mining | Citizenship: South Africa

Patrice Motsepe is a trailblazer in South Africa’s mining industry. As the founder and chairman of African Rainbow Minerals, he leads a diversified mining company with operations in South Africa and Malaysia. Motsepe made history in 2008 as the first Black African to appear on the World’s Billionaires list, and he continues to be a symbol of success in the mining industry. His contributions extend beyond business—Motsepe is also known for his philanthropic efforts, especially in the areas of education and healthcare.

5. Femi Otedola – Net Worth: $1.5 Billion

Source of Wealth: Energy, Utilities | Citizenship: Nigeria

Femi Otedola is a Nigerian energy mogul who made his initial fortune in commodities before diversifying into energy. After selling his shares in Forte Oil, he invested heavily in Geregu Power, a power generation company, where he serves as chairman and majority owner. His strategic investments, including partnerships with the Nigerian government and the State Grid Corporation of China, have positioned him as a key player in the African energy sector.

6. Strive Masiyiwa – Net Worth: $1.2 Billion

Source of Wealth: Telecom | Citizenship: Zimbabwe

Strive Masiyiwa, the founder of Econet Group, is a pioneer in Africa’s telecom sector. Starting in 1993, Masiyiwa transformed Econet into a telecom conglomerate with operations spanning Africa, South America, and Asia. His work in connecting millions across the continent has made him one of Zimbabwe’s most influential figures. Beyond his business ventures, Masiyiwa sits on the boards of the Gates Foundation and Netflix, cementing his role as a global leader in both philanthropy and technology.

These six African billionaires exemplify the remarkable entrepreneurial spirit of the continent, proving that Africa is not just a rising economic power—it is a current force to be reckoned with. From telecommunications to energy, these leaders have not only achieved financial success but are also actively shaping the future of their industries and supporting their communities through philanthropy. As the global economy continues to evolve, the influence of African billionaires like Masiyiwa, Otedola, Motsepe, Rabiu, Adenuga, and Dangote will only grow, inspiring the next generation of African entrepreneurs.