African women are redefining the narrative of success and wealth on the continent. Shattering social barriers and stereotypes, they’re building business empires, driving innovation, and leaving an indelible mark on the world. In this inspiring showcase, we celebrate the Forbes Top 10 Richest Women in Africa for 2024, highlighting their remarkable success stories, impressive net worth, and the lasting impact they’re making in their respective industries.”
Africa’s Richest Women 2024: Top 10 List & Net Worth Revealed
10. Bridget Radebe – South Africa
Bridgette Radebe is a highly accomplished South African businesswoman who has made a lasting impact in the mining industry. As the president of the South African Mining Development Association, she has been instrumental in shaping the industry’s future.
With a career spanning several decades, Radebe’s journey to success is a testament to her hard work, determination, and resilience. She began her career as a minor and later founded her own mining company, Mmakau Mining. Today, she is recognized as one of the most successful women in the African mining industry.
Radebe’s expertise lies in the analysis of gold, uranium, coal, platinum, and chrome. Her company, Mmakau Mining, has interests in various mining operations across South Africa. Her business acumen and leadership skills have earned her numerous accolades and recognition within the industry.
In 2008, Radebe received the International Businessperson of the Year Award from the Global Foundation for Democracy. This prestigious award recognizes business leaders who have made significant contributions to the global economy. Radebe’s award was a testament to her tireless efforts to promote economic growth and development in Africa.
Radebe’s success has also been recognized by various publications and organizations. She has been named one of Africa’s Most Powerful Businesswomen by African Business Review. Her profile has also been featured in various international publications, including Forbes and Bloomberg.
Despite her many accomplishments, Radebe remains committed to giving back to her community. She has been involved in various philanthropic initiatives aimed at promoting education and economic empowerment among women and young people.
With an estimated net worth of $58.7 million, Radebe is one of the richest women in Africa. Her success serves as an inspiration to women across the continent, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
9. Charlize Theron – South Africa
Charlize Theron is a South African-American actress who has made a name for herself as one of the world’s highest-paid actresses in Hollywood. With a net worth of $170 million, she has solidified her position as one of Africa’s richest women.
Theron’s impressive career has been marked by numerous awards, including several Academy Awards (Oscars). Her versatility as an actress has led to leading roles in blockbuster movies such as Mad Max, Snow White and the Huntsman, Fast and Furious, and many others.
At 46 years old, Theron has proven herself to be a talented and bankable star. While she has announced that she will be taking a break from acting to focus on her family, fans can rest assured that she will return to the screen in the future.
Theron’s legacy as one of Africa’s richest and most successful women continues to inspire and empower women across the continent.
8. Wendy Appelbaum – South Africa
Wendy Appelbaum is one of Africa’s most successful and financially empowered women. As a renowned philanthropist and entrepreneur in South Africa, she has earned widespread recognition for her exceptional leadership skills and selfless contributions to those in need.
Appelbaum’s journey to success began in her family’s business, where she developed invaluable skills and eventually became one of the company’s largest individual shareholders. Her experience in negotiation, honed through playing strategic games like tennis, scrabble, and golf, has served her well in her business endeavors.
Today, Appelbaum holds various prominent positions, including Chairperson of De Morgenzon Wine Estate, an agricultural business in Stellenbosch, and Trustee of the Tribune Trust, an investment holding company in South Africa. She also serves as a Director at an empowerment company.
Appelbaum’s net worth stands at $170 million, a testament to her business acumen and leadership skills. She is married to Hilton Appelbaum and has two sons, one a surgeon and the other a banker.
As a trailblazing entrepreneur and philanthropist, Wendy Appelbaum continues to inspire women across Africa, demonstrating that with determination, hard work, and strategic leadership, anyone can achieve greatness.
7. Kate Kanyi Tometi Fotso – Cameroon
Kate Kanyi, affectionately known as the “Iron Lady Billionaire,” is a force to be reckoned with in Cameroon’s business landscape. As the richest woman in Cameroon, Kanyi’s net worth stands at an impressive $252 million
As the Director General of Telcar Cocoa, Kanyi has leveraged her expertise and experience to drive the company’s success. Under her leadership, Telcar Cocoa has become a dominant player in the cocoa sector, accounting for approximately 30% of Cameroon’s cocoa exports.
Kanyi’s journey to success is a testament to her determination and perseverance. With over two decades of experience in the cocoa industry, she has navigated the challenges of a male-dominated field and emerged as a respected leader.
Her achievements have not gone unnoticed. Forbes Business Magazine has recognized Kanyi as the richest woman in Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa, a distinction that underscores her status as a trailblazer in African entrepreneurship.
Despite the challenges posed by the recent conflict in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions, Kanyi remains committed to her business and her community. Her legacy continues to inspire women across Africa, demonstrating that with hard work, dedication, and strategic leadership, anyone can achieve greatness.
6. Patricia Poku-Daiby – Ghana
Patricia Poku-Diaby is a Ghanaian business mogul who has made a name for herself in the cocoa processing industry. With an estimated net worth of $720 million, she is currently the richest woman in Ghana.
As the Chief Executive Officer of Plot Enterprise, a cocoa processing company, Poku-Diaby has built a business empire that operates in Ghana, Africa, and Asia. Her journey began in her family’s trading and transportation business, where she developed a passion for entrepreneurship.
In 2015, Poku-Diaby was listed as the eighth richest Ghanaian amongst 80 Ghanaian businessmen and women by the Goodman Report. Her wealth and business acumen have earned her recognition, and she is celebrated for her excellent business growth over the years.
Poku-Diaby’s company, Plot Enterprise, has become one of the biggest conglomerates in Ghana, with the largest factory for cocoa processing in the western part of the country. Her success is a testament to her hard work and determination, and she is an inspiration to women across Africa.
As she once quoted in an interview, “The best revenge is massive success.” Poku-Diaby’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication and perseverance. She is a true trailblazer, proving that women can succeed in any industry and achieve greatness.
5. Daisy Danjuma – Nigeria
Daisy Danjuma is a trailblazing Nigerian businesswoman and politician who has made a lasting impact on her country’s economic and political landscape. With an estimated net worth of $900 million, she is one of the richest women in Africa and a shining example of entrepreneurial success.
Born in Benin City, Nigeria, Danjuma’s professional journey began as a lawyer. She was called to the Nigerian bar in 1977 and went on to build a distinguished career in law, holding top-ranking positions in both private and public companies.
Danjuma’s foray into politics was equally successful. She served as a senator and was appointed chairman of the Women and Child Rights Committee of the Economic Community of West African States. This role allowed her to advocate for the rights of women and children, leaving a lasting legacy in the region.
In addition to her law and politics career, Danjuma has also invested heavily in the oil and gas industry. Her marriage to Chief Phillip Yakuza Danjuma, founder of an oil exploration company, has also contributed to her wealth.
Today, Danjuma is celebrated as one of Nigeria’s most successful businesswomen. Her rags-to-riches story serves as an inspiration to women across Africa, demonstrating that with hard work, determination, and a keen business sense, anything is possible.
4. Hajia Bola Shagaya – Nigeria
Hajia Bola Shagaya is a renowned Nigerian businesswoman, born on October 10, 1959. She hails from a Muslim community in Nigeria and has built a business empire that spans multiple industries. Shagaya’s educational background is impressive, having studied economics and accountancy at Armstrong College in California.
Her professional career began at the Central Bank of Nigeria, where she worked as an auditor. Today, she is a married mother of six and a successful entrepreneur. Shagaya’s business acumen is evident in her ability to build a network from scratch. She is the CEO of Practoil Limited and Baumus Group International, a conglomerate with interests in real estate, banking, photography, and oil.
Additionally, she is the founder of Voyage Oil. Shagaya’s success has earned her multiple awards from the Nigerian government. In 2010, former President Goodluck Jonathan awarded her the title of Member of the Order of Niger. Forbes Magazine has recognized her as the fourth richest woman in Africa, with a net worth of $950 million.
Apart from her business endeavors, Shagaya is also a fashion enthusiast and has consistently supported the fashion industry in Nigeria. Her philanthropic efforts have also made a significant impact on her community. Shagaya’s achievements serve as an inspiration to women across the continent, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
As a respected business leader, Shagaya has been recognized for her contributions to the Nigerian economy. Her commitment to entrepreneurship and philanthropy has created opportunities for countless individuals, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations of African business leaders. With a net worth of $950 million, Hajia Bola Shagaya is undoubtedly one of the most successful women in Africa.
3. Ngina Kenyatta – Kenya
Ngina Kenyatta, a prominent figure in Kenyan society, has built a business empire that spans multiple industries. As the former First Lady of Kenya, she has leveraged her influence to establish herself as a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist.
With a net worth of $1 billion, Ngina Kenyatta is one of the wealthiest women in Africa. Her business interests are diverse, ranging from manufacturing and construction to marketing and distribution. Gene Investments, her flagship company, has become a household name in Kenya.
In addition to her business ventures, Ngina Kenyatta is also a significant player in Kenya’s financial sector. She owns a substantial stake in the Commercial Bank of Africa, one of the country’s largest banks.
Philanthropy is another area where Ngina Kenyatta has made a lasting impact. Her foundation, the Gender Development Fund, focuses on empowering women and girls through education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Despite facing controversy and scrutiny over the years, Ngina Kenyatta remains a respected figure in Kenyan society. Her legacy as a pioneering businesswoman and philanthropist continues to inspire future generations of African leaders.
At 89 years old, Ngina Kenyatta is still going strong, with a portfolio of properties and business interests that attest to her enduring influence. Her nickname, “The Grandmother of Africa,” is a testament to her wisdom, resilience, and dedication to empowering others.
2. Folorunso Alakija – Nigeria
Folorunso Alakija is one of Nigeria’s most successful businesswomen, with a net worth of $1.3 billion, making her the second richest woman in Africa. Born on July 15, 1951, in Lagos State, Nigeria, Alakija grew up in an upper-middle-class Nigerian family. Her early life and upbringing laid the foundation for her future success.
As the CEO of The Rose of Sharon Group, Alakija has built a reputation for growing a vast real estate empire in Europe, the US, Asia, and Australia. Her business acumen and strategic investments have contributed significantly to her wealth. Alakija also holds vice chairman positions in various companies, including FAMFA Oil and Dayspring Property Development.
Beyond her business success, Alakija is a renowned philanthropist and minister. She founded the Rose of Sharon Foundation, which empowers widows and orphans, and Flourish Africa, which supports women entrepreneurs. Alakija’s commitment to giving back to her community has made a significant impact on the lives of many.
As a minister, Alakija oversees the Rose of Sharon Glorious Ministry International and has authored 17 inspirational books. Her spiritual leadership and guidance have inspired countless individuals, and her books have become a source of motivation and encouragement.
Alakija’s extensive achievements include serving on numerous international boards and being the first female Chancellor of a public African university. She has received an honorary doctorate degree from Benson Idahosa University, Nigeria, for her contribution to the business world. The Nigerian government awarded Alakija’s company an oil prospecting license in 1993, which was later converted to an oil mining lease. The Agbami field has been operating since 2008, and Famfa Oil says it will likely operate through 2024.
Throughout her career, Alakija has demonstrated exceptional leadership, business acumen, and philanthropic spirit. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower women across Africa, and her impact on the business world is undeniable.
1. Isabelle Dos Santos – Angola
Isabel dos Santos is a renowned Angolan businesswoman, boasting a net worth of $2.2 billion. As the daughter of Angola’s former president, José Eduardo dos Santos, she has strategically invested in various sectors, including telecommunications, banking, and media, both within Angola and internationally.
Born in Angola, Isabel dos Santos studied electrical engineering at King’s College in London, where she met her husband, Sindika Dokolo, the son of a millionaire from Kinshasa. Her education laid the foundation for her future business endeavors.
Dos Santos began her career as a project manager, working with her father to disinfect the city of Luanda. Her first business venture was establishing a Miami beach club in 1997. Today, she owns several business firms in Angola and Portugal, including a 25% stake in the private mobile company, Unitel. Her business acumen and strategic investments have contributed significantly to her wealth.
However, dos Santos has faced controversy and challenges throughout her career. In 2019, the Angolan provincial court ordered the freezing of some of her accounts and the seizure of some of her stakes in companies in the country. By 2021, she was banned from entering the US due to significant corruption allegations. Forbes Business Magazine reported in 2013 that dos Santos acquired her wealth primarily through her family’s power and connections.
Despite these controversies, Isabel dos Santos remains one of Africa’s most successful entrepreneurs, with an estimated net worth of $2.2 billion. As the first African woman to reach billionaire status, she continues to inspire and influence the business world. Her legacy serves as a testament to her determination and business prowess.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 10 remarkable women have shattered glass ceilings and redefined what it means to be successful in Africa. Their inspiring stories serve as a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and resilience. As we celebrate their achievements, we hope that their legacies will continue to empower and motivate young girls and women across the continent to pursue their dreams and strive for greatness.We’d love to hear from you! Are there any other African women who you think should be recognized for their wealth and achievements? Share your thoughts in the comments section below and let’s continue the conversation.
Drop comment below
Disclaimer : No copyright infringement intended.
All rights and credits reserved to respective owners.
