The Most Influential People in African Business in 2025

Africa’s business landscape in 2025 is vibrant and dynamic, driven by visionary leaders who are shaping the continent’s economic future. These individuals span various industries, from manufacturing and telecommunications to technology and finance. 

Here’s an overview of some of the most influential figures in African business today:

Aliko Dangote (Nigeria)

As the founder and CEO of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote stands as Africa’s wealthiest individual. His industrial empire encompasses cement, agriculture, and oil refining. The $19 billion Dangote Refinery, the largest in Africa, is poised to transform the continent’s energy sector. Beyond business, Dangote is a philanthropist and global business leader, playing a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s economic trajectory.

Mohammed Dewji (Tanzania)

Leading MeTL Group, a conglomerate operating in textiles, food processing, and agriculture across 10 African countries, Mohammed Dewji is Tanzania’s sole dollar billionaire. A signatory of The Giving Pledge, he has committed half his fortune to philanthropy, solidifying his status as one of East Africa’s most influential business figures.

Strive Masiyiwa (Zimbabwe)

As the chairman of Econet Group, Strive Masiyiwa has been a pioneer in telecom and fintech innovation across Africa. His ventures in renewable energy and digital banking continue to shape the continent’s future. A global influencer, Masiyiwa serves on major international boards, including Netflix and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Prateek Suri (Africa)

Known as the “Technology Tiger of Africa,” Prateek Suri is the chairman and CEO of Maser Group, a consumer electronics and AI-driven venture. With a net worth of $1.4 billion, he has spearheaded investments in frontier technologies, mining, infrastructure, and AI across Africa and the Gulf region.

Abdulsamad Rabiu (Nigeria)

As the executive chairman of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu has established a dominant presence in Nigeria’s cement, sugar, and infrastructure sectors. His extensive investments in ports, real estate, and agriculture underscore his role as a pivotal figure in Africa’s industrialization and economic development.

Nicky Oppenheimer (South Africa)

Heir to the De Beers diamond fortune, Nicky Oppenheimer sold his 40% stake in the company for $5.1 billion in 2012. He remains one of Africa’s wealthiest individuals, with significant investments in aviation, conservation, and private equity.

James Mwangi (Kenya)

James Mwangi, as the CEO of Equity Bank, transformed a small microfinance institution into East Africa’s largest financial services provider. His leadership has been instrumental in increasing financial inclusion and economic empowerment across the region.

Rebecca Amukhoye (Kenya)

As the CEO of the Micro Enterprise Support Programme Trust (MESPT), Rebecca Amukhoye has been a champion of agricultural finance. She has led MESPT in empowering smallholder farmers through sustainable investment and microfinance programs, making her a rising force in Africa’s agribusiness sector.

Wale Tinubu (Nigeria)

Wale Tinubu, as the CEO of Oando Plc, has built Nigeria’s largest indigenous energy company. His strategic vision and leadership have positioned Oando as a key player in Africa’s oil and gas industry.

Koos Bekker (South Africa)

Koos Bekker transformed Naspers into Africa’s largest media and technology conglomerate, with significant investments in companies like Tencent. His strategic foresight has been pivotal in Naspers’ global expansion and success.

Karen Eicker (South Africa)

As the managing director of Apex Information Systems, Karen Eicker has been a trailblazer in digital communications and corporate architecture, making her a key player in South Africa’s information systems industry.

Manali Sheth (South Africa)

From a software analyst to the managing director of eSoft Development, Manali Sheth has redefined Africa’s tech landscape, focusing on digital transformation and AI-driven solutions.

Naguib Sawiris (Egypt)

As the CEO of Orascom Telecom Holding, Naguib Sawiris has been a pioneer in the telecom industry and a significant political influencer in Egypt’s transition.

Abdeslam Ahizoune (Morocco)

Abdeslam Ahizoune, as the chairman and CEO of Maroc Telecom, has been instrumental in Morocco’s telecom revolution, leading one of Africa’s largest telecommunications companies.

Patrice Motsepe (South Africa)

Patrice Motsepe, South Africa’s first Black billionaire, leads African Rainbow Minerals, a top mining and resources firm. He also serves as the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), reflecting his influence beyond the business realm.