Africa is a land of rich cultural heritage and big ideas. As the youngest continent on the planet, with over 60% of its population under 25, it is bursting with new talent and opportunities for innovation.
However, despite the majority of the population being young, they’re not the ones holding the power or the amount of wealth Africa has.
The oldest billionaire on the continent is currently 93-year-old Nathan Kirsh, a South African and Swazi businessman. His net worth is estimated to be a whopping $7.3billion – equivalent to over £5.8billion
Mr Kirsh made his fortune by founding Jetro – a cash-and-carry store in Brooklyn, New York, in 1976. The billionaire then acquired Restaurant Depot 18 years later and opened its first New York retail outlet in 1995.
The two companies then began to operate as sister businesses under Jetro Holdings, and today, as well as owning 75% of the company, Mr Kirsh also retains retail and property interests in the UK, US, Australia and Eswantini.
Othman Benjelloun, the second-oldest billionaire in Africa, isn’t far behind in terms of age to Mr Kirsh. However, he is not so close to him when it comes to their fortunes.
The Moroccan billionaire financier is known for developing BMCE Bank and Bank of Africa of $1.6billion dollars, just short of £1.3billion.
Othman Benjelloun took over an insurance company that his father was a shareholder in, which he turned into RMA Watanya and then expanded it into the banking industry.
Africa’s richest man however, is slightly younger. Aliko Dangote, aged 67 is a Nigerian businessman and philanthropist. He founded Dangote Group – the largest congolomerate in West Africa.
The company, which was founded as a trading enterprise importing sugar, cement, rice, fisheries, and other consumer goods, developed into manufacturing and then into cement production. Today, it owns and operates over 18 subsidiaries.