When you think of Africa’s billionaire class, names like Aliko Dangote and Nassef Sawiris often come to mind—seasoned business moguls who have built empires over decades. Historically, Africa’s wealthiest individuals have largely been older, with many over the age of 70. But the tides are slowly turning, especially as technology, fintech, and digital innovation begin to reshape the continent’s economic landscape.
According to Forbes’ real-time billionaire index, there is now a growing presence of younger African billionaires who are redefining wealth creation on the continent. These individuals are not just building wealth—they’re transforming the way business is done in Africa, embracing more agile, tech-driven, and decentralized business models.
Why It Matters
Africa is home to one of the youngest populations in the world, yet the continent’s wealthiest individuals have traditionally come from older generations and legacy industries like oil, mining, and finance. The rise of younger billionaires—especially those under 50—signals a shift in the continent’s economic narrative.
These new-age billionaires are more likely to reinvest in modern sectors like technology and entertainment, fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem and creating employment opportunities for the next generation. They’re also more likely to influence political and business landscapes in dynamic new ways.
So, who are the trailblazers leading this generational shift?
Top 10 Youngest African Billionaires in 2025
Here’s the definitive list of the continent’s youngest billionaires as of early 2025:
| Rank | Name | Age | Country | Net Worth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mohammed Dewji | 49 | Tanzania | $2.2 billion |
| 2 | Femi Otedola | 62 | Nigeria | $1.5 billion |
| 3 | Patrice Motsepe | 63 | South Africa | $3 billion |
| 4 | Yasseen Mansour | 63 | Egypt | $1.2 billion |
| 5 | Nassef Sawiris | 64 | Egypt | $9.5 billion |
| 6 | Abdulsamad Rabiu | 64 | Nigeria | $4.6 billion |
| 7 | Aziz Akhannouch | 64 | Morocco | $1.5 billion |
| 8 | Strive Masiyiwa | 64 | Zimbabwe | $1.2 billion |
| 9 | Aliko Dangote | 67 | Nigeria | $23.4 billion |
| 10 | Naguib Sawiris | 70 | Egypt | $5 billion |
The Standout: Mohammed Dewji
At just 49 years old, Mohammed Dewji stands out as the youngest billionaire on the list. The Tanzanian tycoon has built his wealth through diversified investments, notably in manufacturing and trading through his company, MeTL Group. Dewji’s success is a testament to the opportunities available in Africa for those who innovate and take bold steps in modern sectors.
The Bigger Picture
While only one billionaire on the list is under 50, the trend is clear: Africa’s next generation of wealth is increasingly being forged through innovation, not inheritance. As more young entrepreneurs embrace sectors like fintech, digital commerce, and entertainment, we can expect to see a more youthful and dynamic class of billionaires emerging in the years ahead.
This shift is more than symbolic—it represents a changing of the guard and a glimpse into Africa’s economic future.
