FX.co ★ Africa’s rich and privileged

Aliko Dangote, net worth $12.1 bln

Referring to Forbes’ ratings, Aliko Dangote has been acknowledged as the richest man in Africa in 2021. Interestingly, the billionaire has been holding the title for the 10th year straight. For the time being, the entrepreneur’s net worth is estimated at $12.1billion. The lion’s share of his wealth comes from Dangote Group, the industrial conglomerate that was founded more than 30 years ago. Over this time, the company has expanded into one of the largest cement producers in West Africa. Besides, the successful industrialist owns the third biggest sugar refinery in the world. Apart from production facilities, Dangote invests in car manufacturing and the oil sector.

Nassef Sawiris, net worth $8.5 bln

The second rank is given to Nassef Sawiris, an entrepreneur from Egypt. Unlike Aliko Dangote who built his business empire from scratch, Nassef Sawiris is a scion of Egypt's wealthiest family. He is the youngest son of Onsi Sawiris, the founder of the Orascom building and engineering company. He joined the family business at the age of 22. Because of his efforts, the construction business has evolved into a multi-profile holding company, currently spanning electronics and telecommunications. Apart from that, Nassef holds a nearly 6% stake in sportswear maker Adidas.

Johann Rupert, net worth $7.2 bln

Forbes placed Johann Rupert, a South African-born entrepreneur, on the 4th rank. He has lost two ranks since 2020. Nowadays, luxury items are the main source of the billionaire’s revenue. In 1988, he established his own company, Richemont. His business develops in various directions such as manufacturing watches, jewelry, elite stationery, and haute couture apparel. Richemont also possesses a number of well-known European brands: Cartier, Chloé, IWC Schaffhausen, etc.

Mike Adenuga, net worth $6.2 bln

The 5th line on Forbes’ list of the wealthiest Africans is occupied by Nigerian tycoon Mike Adenuga. He earned his first million dollars at the age of 26. Since then, the entrepreneur has been able to pump up his wealth to several billion dollars for 42 years in business. At present, his own company Globacom is the second largest telecom operator in Nigeria with branches in Ghana and Benin. Moreover, Mike Adenuga has other sources of income. He holds stakes in Equitorial Trust Bank and the oil exploration company Conoil.