Strive Masiyiwa has long been a trailblazer in African entrepreneurship. As the founder and executive chairman of Econet Wireless, Masiyiwa broke barriers in Zimbabwe’s telecom sector and laid the groundwork for Africa’s digital revolution. With an estimated net worth of $2 billion, Masiyiwa, now a British citizen, stands as one of the wealthiest individuals of African descent globally—and the United Kingdom’s first black billionaire.
The Entrepreneurial Visionary
Masiyiwa’s journey to success began in the 1990s, when he founded Econet Wireless. Facing resistance from Zimbabwe’s state-controlled telecom monopoly, he waged a five-year legal battle, eventually winning a constitutional case that liberalized the industry. The victory catalyzed the growth of private telecommunications across Africa. Today, Econet Wireless operates in multiple countries and is a leading force in telecommunications and digital services.
Beyond telecommunications, Masiyiwa has diversified into green energy and fintech, positioning his enterprises as key players in sectors critical to Africa’s development. He also sits on several high-profile corporate boards, including Unilever and Netflix, and serves on global advisory bodies like the Council on Foreign Relations, amplifying his influence far beyond the continent.
Investing in Africa’s Future
Philanthropy is at the heart of Masiyiwa’s legacy. Through the Higherlife Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife, Tsitsi, Masiyiwa has provided scholarships to over 250,000 African youth, including orphans and vulnerable children. The foundation also supports digital learning platforms, such as Akello, which have delivered educational resources to tens of thousands of students across Africa.
Masiyiwa’s commitment to social impact extends to broader areas like healthcare, rural transformation, and disaster relief. His inclusion in the Giving Pledge underscores his resolve to reinvest wealth into addressing systemic challenges across Africa.
A Global Leader with an African Focus
Masiyiwa’s reach transcends business. As a member of SMART Africa, he contributes to policy and strategies aimed at transforming Africa into a digital economy. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of the African Union task force illustrated his ability to address continental challenges. On social media, Masiyiwa engages with over five million followers, mentoring young entrepreneurs and advocating for innovation.
The Road Ahead
Strive Masiyiwa’s endeavors highlight a seamless integration of business and social responsibility, making him a pivotal figure in Africa’s economic transformation. With a focus on fostering talent, innovation, and opportunity, Masiyiwa continues to set a benchmark for African billionaires aiming to create lasting impact.
