Emmanuel OchayiAfrica has long been home to billionaires who built their wealth in industries such as oil, mining, and real estate. However, a new wave of young billionaires is emerging, particularly in technology, fintech, and entertainment. These young billionaires are not only amassing wealth but also reshaping Africa’s economy by investing in innovation and digital solutions.
Despite Africa having a predominantly young population, most of its wealthiest individuals are older. As of 2025, ten of Africa’s billionaires are over 72 years old, with Nathan Kirsh, the oldest, being over 90. However, there is a notable shift as younger billionaires rise, leveraging new industries to create wealth.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThis article lists the youngest African billionaires in 2025 and highlights their influence on the continent’s economic growth.
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Why Young Billionaires Matter in Africa
The rise of young African billionaires is significant for several reasons:
Technology and Innovation: Many of these billionaires have built their wealth in sectors such as fintech and entertainment, which are crucial for Africa’s digital transformation.
Job Creation: Young billionaires often reinvest in modern industries, creating jobs and reducing unemployment.
Economic Growth: By focusing on scalable businesses, they accelerate Africa’s economic development.
Workplace Transformation: Unlike traditional billionaires, younger ones embrace flexible, tech-driven business models that enhance efficiency and improve working conditions.
Political Influence: As these young billionaires gain financial power, they also have the potential to shape Africa’s political landscape.
Now, let’s look at the youngest African billionaires in 2025.
Youngest African Billionaires in 2025
Below is the list of the youngest billionaires in Africa in 2025, based on Forbes’ real-time billionaire index.
1. Mohammed Dewji (Tanzania) – 49 years old
Net worth: $2.2 billion
Mohammed Dewji remains the youngest billionaire in Africa. He built his wealth through METL Group, which has investments in textiles, beverages, and agriculture. Dewji is also known for his philanthropic work, focusing on education and healthcare.
2. Femi Otedola (Nigeria) – 62 years old
Net worth: $1.5 billion
Femi Otedola made his fortune in the oil industry but has since diversified into energy and finance. His investments in the power sector are contributing to Nigeria’s electricity reforms.
3. Patrice Motsepe (South Africa) – 63 years old
Net worth: $3 billion
Motsepe is a mining tycoon and the founder of African Rainbow Minerals. He also owns Mamelodi Sundowns FC and has played a key role in corporate philanthropy through his Motsepe Foundation.
4. Yasseen Mansour (Egypt) – 63 years old
Net worth: $1.2 billion
Yasseen Mansour is a major player in Egypt’s consumer goods industry. He holds significant stakes in Palm Hills Developments, one of the country’s biggest real estate companies.
5. Nassef Sawiris (Egypt) – 64 years old
Net worth: $9.5 billion
As the wealthiest man in Egypt, Nassef Sawiris has interests in construction, chemicals, and sports. He holds a stake in Adidas and owns a major share in Aston Villa Football Club.
6. Abdulsamad Rabiu (Nigeria) – 64 years old
Net worth: $4.6 billion
Rabiu is the founder of BUA Group, a leading Nigerian company involved in cement production, sugar refining, and real estate. His business expansion continues to boost Nigeria’s industrial sector.
7. Aziz Akhannouch (Morocco) – 64 years old
Net worth: $1.5 billion
Akhannouch made his fortune in petroleum and is currently Morocco’s Prime Minister. He owns Akwa Group, which has investments in gas and chemicals.
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8. Strive Masiyiwa (Zimbabwe) – 64 years old
Net worth: $1.2 billion
Masiyiwa is a tech entrepreneur known for founding Econet, a major telecommunications company in Africa. His investments in digital finance and satellite technology continue to grow.
9. Aliko Dangote (Nigeria) – 67 years old
Net worth: $23.4 billion
Dangote remains Africa’s richest man, with vast interests in cement, sugar, and oil refining. His newly commissioned Dangote Refinery is expected to revolutionise Africa’s energy sector.
10. Naguib Sawiris (Egypt) – 70 years old
Net worth: $5 billion
Naguib Sawiris has built his wealth through telecommunications and media. He is also a major investor in gold mining and financial services.
The Future of Young African Billionaires
The dominance of older billionaires in Africa is slowly changing as younger individuals rise in wealth and influence. The growth of sectors like fintech, e-commerce, and digital services has made it possible for young entrepreneurs to build billion-dollar businesses.
This trend is expected to continue, with more young Africans breaking into the billionaire club through innovation and technology. Their investments will not only generate personal wealth but also drive Africa’s overall economic progress.
Africa’s youngest billionaires in 2025 represent a shift from traditional industries to modern sectors. Their impact on job creation, economic growth, and innovation is significant. As more young entrepreneurs emerge, Africa’s business landscape will continue to evolve, bringing new opportunities and challenges.
With technology playing a central role in wealth creation, the next generation of African billionaires is likely to be even younger and more influential.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
