Africa boasts a cohort of remarkable women who have ascended to the summit of wealth and success across diverse industries like oil & gas, finance, mining, and real estate. As we delve into 2024, let’s unveil the top 10 richest women who have etched their names in the annals of African wealth, their journeys marked by perseverance, innovation, and audacity.
Folorunsho Alakija (Nigeria) – Net Worth: $1.55 Billion
Folorunsho Alakija, Nigeria’s wealthiest woman, carved her path to riches through the oil industry. From humble beginnings as a secretary in the 1970s, she ascended to prominence with Famfa Oil, her flagship company. Alongside her oil ventures, Alakija’s investments in real estate both in the UK and Nigeria have bolstered her fortune.
Ngina Kenyatta (Kenya) – Net Worth: $1 Billion
Ngina Kenyatta, widow of Kenya’s inaugural President, Jomo Kenyatta, stands as a silent force in Africa’s wealth landscape. With extensive land holdings and stakes in various enterprises including Commercial Bank of Africa and Brookside Dairies, she maintains a legacy of influence and prosperity.
Hajia Bola Shagaya (Nigeria) – Net Worth: $950 Million
Hajia Bola Shagaya’s ascent to wealth revolves around diverse investments across Nigeria, notably her stake in Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc and a robust real estate portfolio spanning continents. Her entrepreneurial acumen positions her among Africa’s elite female tycoons.
Dr. Stella Okoli (Nigeria) – Net Worth: $800 Million
Dr. Stella Okoli’s journey epitomizes resilience and ingenuity. Founder of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, she transformed a modest investment into a pharmaceutical giant, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
Daisy Danjuma (Nigeria) – Net Worth: $800 Million
Daisy Danjuma’s foray into entrepreneurship alongside her husband birthed South Atlantic Petroleum Ltd (SAPETRO), solidifying her status as a formidable figure in Nigeria’s oil industry. With strategic board positions and ventures, she continues to wield considerable influence.
Irene Charnley (South Africa) – Net Worth: $150 Million
Irene Charnley’s trajectory from trade unionist to telecoms magnate underscores her versatility and business acumen. Her pivotal role in MTN’s expansion cements her status as a prominent female executive in Africa.
Wendy Ackerman (South Africa) – Net Worth: $190 Million
Wendy Ackerman’s stewardship propelled Pick ‘n Pay Stores Limited to preeminence within Southern Africa’s retail landscape. Her strategic leadership and inheritance from her late husband underpin her substantial wealth.
Isabel dos Santos (Angola) – Net Worth: $300 Million
Despite challenges, Isabel dos Santos retains a significant fortune, derived from investments forged through foreign partnerships. While navigating complexities, she remains a prominent businesswoman, albeit amid legal controversies.
Wendy Applebaum (South Africa) – Net Worth: $259 Million
Wendy Applebaum’s astute investments in various sectors solidify her position as a leading entrepreneur. Inheriting a substantial portfolio, she continues to shape South Africa’s business landscape.
Bridget Radebe (South Africa) – Net Worth: $25 Million
Bridget Radebe’s trailblazing journey from humble beginnings to becoming South Africa’s first black female mining entrepreneur is a testament to perseverance and determination. Despite modest net worth, her impact on the mining sector is profound.
In conclusion, Folorunsho Alakija stands as a beacon of inspiration and achievement, not just within Nigeria but across the entirety of Africa. With a net worth of $1.55 billion, she has solidified her position as the wealthiest woman on the continent. Alakija’s journey from a humble beginning as a secretary to the helm of Famfa Oil, alongside her savvy investments in real estate, underscores her entrepreneurial prowess and resilience. Her success serves as a testament to the boundless possibilities that await those with determination, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As Africa continues to evolve, Folorunsho Alakija’s legacy will endure as a shining example of female empowerment and economic success.