Top 7 Richest Billionaires in 2026, According to Forbes

In 2026, the continent’s 23 billionaires hold a combined $126.7 billion, marking a 21% increase from 2025. Together, they added $20.3 billion to their fortunes in just one year, helped by strong stock market performance, firmer regional currencies, and growth across key sectors such as manufacturing, mining, telecoms, and retail.

South Africa has the most billionaires on the continent, with seven, followed by Egypt with five, Nigeria with four, and Morocco with three. One detail stands out clearly: this year’s list includes no women.

Below are the 7 richest Africans in 2026, according to Forbes.

Africa’s Top 7 Richest in 2026

1. Aliko Dangote — $28.5 Billion

Aliko Dangote remains firmly at the top as Africa’s richest man. His fortune rose by $4.6 billion over the past year, driven largely by a 69% increase in Dangote Cement shares. His refinery project is also adding to investor confidence, especially as expansion plans continue to take shape. With strong positions in cement, sugar, and refining, Dangote continues to dominate Africa’s industrial landscape.

2. Johann Rupert & Family — $16.1 Billion

South African billionaire Johann Rupert holds second place, with wealth anchored in luxury goods. Much of his fortune comes from Richemont, the global luxury group behind brands such as Cartier and Montblanc, alongside broader investments through Remgro. Rupert may operate with less noise than some of his peers, but his business empire remains one of the most durable and globally connected on the continent.

3. Abdulsamad Rabiu — $11.2 Billion

Abdulsamad Rabiu recorded the biggest rise among Africa’s richest in 2026. He moved from sixth place last year to third this year after his net worth surged by 120%. The major driver was the remarkable performance of BUA Cement shares, which climbed 135% over the year. His rise reflects the growing strength of construction and infrastructure-linked investments in Africa.

4. Nicky Oppenheimer & Family — $10.6 Billion

The Oppenheimer name remains one of the most influential in African business. Long associated with the diamond trade through De Beers, the family has since expanded into a broader investment portfolio beyond mining. With a fortune of $10.6 billion, Nicky Oppenheimer and his family continue to hold a strong place in South Africa’s billionaire circle.

5. Nassef Sawiris — $9.6 Billion

Nassef Sawiris remains Egypt’s richest man and one of Africa’s most internationally exposed billionaires. His interests span construction, engineering, and chemicals, while his global profile is boosted by investments in Adidas and English football club Aston Villa. Unlike many others on the list, his fortune remained relatively stable this year, with little movement in either direction.

6. Mike Adenuga — $6.5 Billion

Mike Adenuga, one of Nigeria’s most private business figures, ranks sixth. His wealth comes mainly from Globacom, one of Nigeria’s leading telecom companies, and Conoil, which gives him a foothold in the energy sector. His long-standing influence in telecoms and oil keeps him among the most powerful businessmen in West Africa.

7. Naguib Sawiris — $5.6 Billion

Naguib Sawiris completes the top seven. Best known for building his fortune through Orascom Telecom, he has since expanded into media, tourism, mining, technology, and venture capital. He is also one of the most publicly outspoken billionaires on the continent, blending business influence with a visible public presence.