African man on Forbes cover highlighting banking and economic issues in Africa.
In 2025, Africa’s 22 billionaires collectively amassed a record-breaking $105 billion, marking a significant increase from $82.4 billion the previous year. This surge aligns with a 22% rise in global equity markets. Aliko Dangote of Nigeria maintained his position as Africa’s richest individual for the 14th consecutive year, with his net worth soaring to $23.9 billion, largely due to the operational commencement of his Lagos-based oil refinery. South African luxury goods magnate Johann Rupert secured the second spot with a fortune of $14 billion. The continent also witnessed the return of previous billionaires like Morocco’s Anas Sefrioui and South Africa’s Jannie Mouton to the list, while Zimbabwe’s Strive Masiyiwa saw a decline in wealth amid currency changes. South Africa led with seven billionaires, followed by Nigeria and Egypt with four each.