Top 10 Matured Billionaires of Africa 2025
Rankings of Africa's Eldest Billionaires in the Year 2025
Unleashing the business titans who've spent decades forging vast empires and moulding continental economies, here's a snippet of the ageing barons, their industries, and the indelible legacies they're still sculpting.
Disclaimer: Please note that the exact age ranking and industries may vary due to the unavailability of data for the specific year 2025.
1. Old Man Kirsch
At the helm when it comes to age, Nathan Kirsch, the evergreen tycoon, has struck gold through astute investments in retail and real estate. His firm, Kirsh Holdings, sprawls across multiple markets, notably Eswatini, South Africa, and the United States. His savvy moves in wholesale cash-and-carry have not only lined his pockets but also etched his place as a formidable businessman on the African continent.
2. The North African Lion
With a mighty presence in the banking and insurance sectors of Morocco, Othman Benjelloun is a force to be reckoned with through his influential position as the chair of BMCE Bank. As one of Africa's major financial institutions, the bank under his visionary leadership has expanded its footprint, adapting to the ever-shifting financial landscape, and maintaining its status as a heavy hitter in the industry.
3. The Retail Titan
Christoffel Wiese, South Africa's retail kingpin, has revolutionized the grocery chain industry with his transformative leadership of Shoprite, making it the largest grocery retailer in Africa. Despite economic challenges, Wiese's retail empire thrives, cementing his influence on the retail sector.
4. The Algerian Alpha
Issad Rebrab made his fortune in the food industry, ruling over Cevital - Algeria's largest private conglomerate. His forward-thinking business strategy has expanded his commercial activities beyond food production, encompassing agribusiness, steel, and manufacturing. His wise diversification and consistent growth have solidified his position as a key influencer in Algeria's private sector.
5. The Diamond Darling
Nicky Oppenheimer, a seasoned diamond veteran, once held the reins at De Beers, the world's biggest diamond company. Though parted from the gem world, Oppenheimer continuously reels in the dough through smart investments, while maintaining a strong presence in conservation and charity efforts.
6. The Expanding Egyptian
Youssef Mansour, hailing from the illustrious Mansour family, has amassed a fortune through varied businesses, including consumer goods, automobiles, and telecommunications. Through the influence of the Mansour Group, he's left an indelible mark on Egypt's economy through clever growth strategies and innovative vision.
7. The Successor Brother
Mohamed Mansour, Youssef's brother and a key executive in the Mansour Group, oversees the group's vast network of Caterpillar dealerships across various nations. His strategic thinking and business wisdom have allowed the group to remain competitive and influential in the global market, ensuring sustainable growth.
8. The Banking Maverick
Michiel Le Roux, the mechanical mind behind Capitec Bank, shook up the South African banking industry by introducing a cost-effective and easily accessible banking model. With his innovation, he's made financial services available to the masses, reshaping the banking landscape and fueling a competitive market.
9. The Swissguard of Luxury
With a passion for luxury, Johann Rupert excels as the chairman of Richemont, the opulent conglomerate that houses prestigious brands like Cartier, Montblanc, and Piaget. His visionary leadership and keen foresight have propelled Richemont to global dominance, establishing him as a luxurious titan and an influential player in the market.
10. The Impactful Investor
Koos Bekker, praised for his keen business acumen, has amassed wealth through diverse investments in media, technology, and e-commerce. As the pillar of South African multinational company Naspers, he transformed the company from a print powerhouse to a global digital force, leading the way in the evolving technology landscape.
These veteran tycoons have left indelible marks on various industries across Africa, further fueling the continent's rapid economic growth. Their stories serve as inspiration for future generations of African business enthusiasts.
E-commerce has become a significant area of investment for some of Africa's top billionaires, with Koos Bekker, the influential leader of South African multinational company Naspers, playing a key role in transforming the company from a print powerhouse to a global digital force.
The retail sector has also been revolutionized by the strategic moves of Christoffel Wiese, South Africa's retail kingpin, who has made Shoprite, the largest grocery retailer in Africa, thrive despite economic challenges. His influence continues to reshape the retail industry landscape.
