IN the latest release of CEOWORLD magazine’s rankings, Johann Rupert, the founder and chairman of Richemont, stands tall as Africa’s wealthiest individual in 2024, boasting a formidable net worth of $10.3bn. Rupert’s ascendancy to the pinnacle of the continent’s wealth hierarchy underscores his unparalleled success in steering Richemont, a conglomerate renowned for its ownership of esteemed brands such as Cartier and Montblanc.
Not far behind Rupert is the widely recognised name of Aliko Dangote, hailing from Nigeria, whose net worth registers at an impressive $9.5bn. Dangote’s fortune, primarily amassed through ventures in the cement and sugar industries, solidifies his position as the second wealthiest in Africa. His entrepreneurial prowess as the founder of Dangote Group has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s economic growth and job creation, elevating him to a prominent stature in the African business landscape.
Securing the third spot on the list is Nicky Oppenheimer, wielding a substantial net worth of $8.3bn. The Oppenheimer family’s fortunes are deeply interwoven with the diamond industry, marked by substantial interests in the illustrious De Beers Group. Following closely behind is Nassef Sawiris from Egypt, claiming the fourth position with a net worth of $7.4bn, predominantly amassed through ventures in the construction and investment sectors.
The economic leadership showcased by this select group of Africa’s wealthiest individuals in 2024 highlights not only their individual achievements but also underscores the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the continent’s business landscape. Their strategic investments have the potential to catalyse economic growth, enhance social welfare, and steer the continent toward a more sustainable and inclusive future.
The richest people in Africa – 2024
| Rank | Name | Country | Net worth |
| 1 | Johann Rupert | South Africa | $10.3bn |
| 2 | Aliko Dangote | Nigeria | $9.5bn |
| 3 | Nicky Oppenheimer | South Africa | $8.3bn |
| 4 | Nassef Sawiris | Egypt | $7.4bn |
| 5 | Abdulsamad Rabiu | Nigeria | $6.2bn |
| 6 | Nathan Kirsh | Eswatini/Swaziland | $5.8bn |
| 7 | Mohamed Mansour | Egypt | $3.6bn |
| 8 | Naguib Sawiris | Egypt | $3.3bn |
| 9 | Mike Adenuga | Nigeria | $3.2bn |
| 10 | Patrice Motsepe | South Africa | $2.4bn |
| 11 | Koos Bekker | South Africa | $2.3bn |
| 12 | Strive Masiyiwa | Zimbabwe | $1.9bn |
| 13 | Youssef Mansour | Egypt | $1.5bn |
| 14 | Mohammed Dewji | Tanzania | $1.5bn |
| 15 | Yasseen Mansour | Egypt | $1.3bn |
| 16 | Michiel Le Roux | South Africa | $1.1bn |
| 17 | Christoffel Wiese | South Africa | $1bn |
The ranking underscores the influential role these individuals play in shaping Africa’s economic landscape, offering a glimpse into the continent’s evolving business sphere and the potential for sustained growth under their leadership.
