Africa is home to a growing number of powerful women who have defied odds to become some of the wealthiest individuals on the continent. These women have not only amassed impressive fortunes but have also made significant contributions to their respective countries’ economies and societies. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 richest African women:
1. Isabel dos Santos (🇦🇴) – $2.2 Billion
Isabel dos Santos, the daughter of Angola’s former president, has built her wealth through investments in various industries, including telecommunications, banking, and media. Despite facing allegations of corruption, dos Santos remains a prominent figure in Angola’s business landscape.
2. Folorunso Alakija (🇳🇬) – $1 Billion
Nigeria’s Folorunso Alakija is a self-made billionaire who made her fortune in oil and fashion. She is the founder of Famfa Oil, one of Nigeria’s leading oil exploration companies, and is also involved in philanthropic activities aimed at empowering women and children.
3. Ngina Kenyatta (🇰🇪) – $1 Billion
Ngina Kenyatta, the widow of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, inherited a significant portion of her wealth. She is known for her investments in real estate and banking, among other industries, and is considered one of Kenya’s most influential women.
4. Hajia Bola Shagaya (🇳🇬) – $800M
Hajia Bola Shagaya is a Nigerian businesswoman with interests in real estate, oil, and banking. She has built a successful career despite facing challenges and is known for her philanthropic efforts in Nigeria.
5. Wendy Appelbaum (🇿🇦) – $600M
Wendy Appelbaum is a South African businesswoman who has made her fortune in the insurance and real estate industries. She is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and women’s empowerment.
6. Yvonne Ike (🇳🇬) – $600M
Yvonne Ike is a Nigerian banker and businesswoman who has worked in various leadership roles in the financial sector. She is known for her expertise in banking and finance and has played a significant role in Nigeria’s banking industry.
7. Sharon Wapnick (🇿🇦) – $500M
Sharon Wapnick is a South African businesswoman who has made her fortune in the property development industry. She is known for her successful real estate projects and her contributions to South Africa’s economy.
8. Bridgette Radebe (🇿🇦) – $400M
Bridgette Radebe is a South African businesswoman who has made her fortune in the mining industry. She is known for her entrepreneurial spirit and her role in promoting gender equality in the mining sector.
9. Irene Charnley (🇿🇦) – $400M
Irene Charnley is a South African businesswoman who has worked in the telecommunications industry. She is known for her leadership skills and her contributions to the development of the telecommunications sector in Africa.
10. Wendy Ackerman (🇿🇦) – $200M
Wendy Ackerman is a South African businesswoman who has made her fortune in the retail industry. She is known for her successful retail chain and her contributions to South Africa’s economy.
