Discover the wealthiest individuals in Southern Africa as we delve into the lives of the Top 25 Richest People in the region. This comprehensive article sheds light on their fortunes, achievements, and contributions to the region’s economic landscape.
Nicky Oppenheimer – R95.2 billion
Nicholas F. Oppenheimer is a prominent South African billionaire businessman. He previously held the position of chairman at the De Beers diamond mining company, along with its subsidiary, the Diamond Trading Company. Additionally, he served as the former deputy chairman of Anglo American, a multinational mining company. As of his financial standing, he ranks as the third wealthiest individual in Africa. Wikipedia
Born: 8 June 1945 (age 78 years), South Africa
Net worth: 8,3 billion USD (2023) Forbes
Children: Jonathan Oppenheimer
Spouse: Orcillia Lasch (m. 1968)
Education: Harrow School, Christ Church
Siblings: Mary Slack
Parents: Harry Oppenheimer, Bridget Oppenheimer
Johann Rupert – R82.96 billion
Johann Peter Rupert is a distinguished South African billionaire businessman, renowned as the eldest son of the esteemed business magnate Anton Rupert and his wife Huberte. He holds the esteemed position of chairman within two prominent companies: Richemont, a luxury-goods company headquartered in Switzerland, and Remgro, a notable South African-based corporation. Wikipedia
Born: 1 June 1950 (age 73 years), Stellenbosch
Net worth: 10,4 billion USD (2023) Forbes
Children: Anton Rupert Jr., Caroline Rupert, Hanneli Rupert
Spouse: Gaynor Rupert
Education: Paul Roos Gymnasium, Stellenbosch University
Parents: Anton Rupert, Huberte Rupert
Siblings: Hanneli Rupert, Anthonij Rupert
Christoffel Wiese – R76.16 billion
Christoffel F. Hendrik Wiese is a notable South African businessman and former billionaire, recognized for amassing his wealth from the consumer retail industry. Wikipedia
Born: September 10, 1941 (age 81 years), Upington, South Africa
Net worth: 1 billion USD (2023) Forbes
Children: Clare Wiese, Jacob Daniel Wiese, Christina Wiese
Education: Stellenbosch University, Paarl Boys’ High School
Ivan Glasenberg – R65.28 billion
Ivan Glasenberg is a prominent South African business executive and the former chief executive officer of Glencore, a major global commodity trading and mining firm. He held the CEO position at Glencore from 2002 until 2021. With citizenship ties to South Africa and Australia, Glasenberg also obtained Swiss citizenship in 2011. Wikipedia
Born: January 1957 (age 66 years), Johannesburg, South Africa
Net worth: 8.7 billion USD (2023) Forbes
Nationality: Australian, Israeli, South African, Swiss
Spouse: Elana Glasenberg
Education: University of Southern California, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, USC Marshall School of Business
Children: 2
Known for: Former CEO of Glencore
Patrice Motsepe – R34.4 billion
Patrice Tlhopane Motsepe is a prominent South African mining billionaire businessman. Notably, he assumed the role of President of the Confederation of African Football from March 12, 2021. He is recognized as the founder and executive chairman of African Rainbow Minerals, a company with diverse interests in gold, ferrous metals, base metals, and platinum. Wikipedia
Born: January 28, 1962 (age 61 years), Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa
Net worth: 2.4 billion USD (2023) Forbes
Spouse: Precious Moloi-Motsepe (m. 1989)
Children: Kgosi Motsepe, Thlopie Motsepe, Kabelo Motsepe
Parents: Augustine Motsepe, Key Motsepe
Education: University of Eswatini – Kwaluseni Campus, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, St Marks High
Siblings: Tshepo Motsepe, Bridgette Radebe
Koos Bekker – R28.56 billion
Jacobus Petrus “Koos” Bekker is a distinguished South African billionaire businessman, renowned for his role as the chairman of the media conglomerate Naspers. Notably, Naspers operates across 130 countries and is publicly listed on both the London Stock Exchange and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Wikipedia
Born: December 14, 1952 (age 70 years), Potchefstroom, South Africa
Net worth: 2.4 billion USD (2023) Forbes
Spouse: Karen Roos
Education: University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (1976–1978), Stellenbosch University
Organization founded: MultiChoice
Children: 4
Allan Gray – R24.48 billion
Allan Gray is a prominent investment management company based in South Africa. In addition to its South African presence, the company operates offices in Botswana, Namibia, and Eswatini. Notably, Allan Gray maintains a strong affiliation with sister companies, namely Orbis Investment Management and Allan Gray Australia. Wikipedia
Customer service: 011 27 21 415 2301
Subsidiaries: Allan Gray Life Limited, MORE
Founded: 1973
Founder: Allan Gray
AUM: R322.5 billion (31 December, 2021)
Stephen Saad – R16.32 billion
Stephen Bradley Saad is a renowned South African billionaire businessman, celebrated as the founder and chief executive of Aspen Pharmacare. Notably, Aspen Pharmacare stands as the foremost manufacturer of generic medicines in Africa. Wikipedia
Born: June 23, 1964 (age 59 years), Durban, South Africa
Nationality: South African
Education: Durban High School, University of Natal
Siblings: Paul Saad
Jannie Mouton – R13.6 billion
Johannes “Jannie” Mouton is a distinguished South African billionaire businessman, acclaimed as the founder and chairman of PSG Group. Wikipedia
Born: 1946 (age 77 years), Carnarvon, South Africa
Children: Piet Mouton, Jan Mouton, Charité Volkwyn
Spouse: Dana Mouton (m. ?–2004), Deidré Mouton
Education: Stellenbosch University
Lauritz Dippenaar – R8.5 billion
Lauritz “Laurie” Dippenaar is a respected South African millionaire, noted for his roles as a businessman, investor, and banker. He served as the Chairman of FirstRand Financial Group. Beyond his business endeavors, Dippenaar is recognized for his significant philanthropic contributions. He actively manages a scholarship program through his scholarship fund, demonstrating his commitment to supporting education and advancement. Wikipedia
Born: October 25, 1948 (age 74 years)
Children: Three
Education: Die Hoërskool Menlopark
Organization founded: FirstRand
Cyril Ramaphosa- R8 billion
Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa is a prominent South African figure, acclaimed for his roles as a businessman and politician. Presently, he holds the esteemed position of the fifth and current President of South Africa. Beyond his political responsibilities, Ramaphosa has a notable history as an anti-apartheid activist, a trade union leader, and a businessman. He also serves as the president of the African National Congress. Wikipedia
Born: November 17, 1952 (age 70 years), Soweto, South Africa
Spouse: Tshepo Motsepe (m. 1996), Nomazizi Mtshotshisa (m. 1991–1993)
Presidential term: February 15, 2018 –
Office: President of South Africa since 2018
Previous offices: Chairperson of the African Union (2020–2021), Deputy President of South Africa (2014–2018)
Education: University of South Africa (1981)
Parents: Samuel Ramaphosa, Erdmuth Ramaphosa
Vusi Thembekwayo – R8 billion
Vusi Thembekwayo is a distinguished South African entrepreneur, author, and businessman. He is recognized as the founder and CEO of MyGrowthFund Venture Partners. Additionally, he has authored two books that contribute to his notable achievements. Wikipedia
Born: March 21, 1985 (age 38 years)
Books: Vusi: Business & Life Lessons from a Black Dragon
Nationality: South African
Michiel Le Roux – R7.2 billion
Michiel Le Roux, a prominent figure from South Africa, is the visionary behind the establishment of Capitec Bank in 2001. He maintains ownership of approximately a 9% stake in the bank. Operating within the framework of the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Capitec Bank focuses on catering to the burgeoning middle class in South Africa. Le Roux played a pivotal role as the chairman of the board of Capitec from 2007 to 2016, and he continues to contribute as a valued board member. Prior to his involvement with Capitec, Le Roux successfully managed Boland Bank, a smaller regional bank nestled in the outskirts of Cape Town.
Personal Stats
Age: 74
Source of Wealth: Banking, Self Made
Residence; Stellenbosch, South Africa
Citizenship: South Africa
Marital Status: Married
Raymond Ackerman – R6.9 billion
Raymond Ackerman, a prominent South African businessman, is celebrated for his significant contributions to the retail sector. He acquired the Pick ‘n Pay supermarket group from its founder, Jack Goldin, in the 1960s. His purchase included four stores, marking the beginning of a transformative journey. Ackerman assumed the role of chairman, effectively leading the company until his decision to step down in 2010. His leadership and vision have left a lasting impact on the retail industry in South Africa. Wikipedia
Born: March 10, 1931 (age 92 years), South Africa
Children: Gareth Ackerman, Suzanne Ackerman-Berman, Kathryn Ackerman
Education: Bishops Diocesan College, University of Cape Town
Spouse: Wendy Ackerman
Parents: Gus Ackerman
Adrian Gore – R6.7 billion
Adrian Gore, a notable figure in South Africa, is recognized for his role as a distinguished businessman and entrepreneur. He holds the esteemed position of founder and group chief executive at Discovery Limited, a renowned company.
Nationality: South African
Born: 16 May 1964 (age 59)
Biography · Recognition
Gerrit Thomas Ferreira – R5.8 billion
Gerrit Thomas Ferreira, widely known as GT Ferreira, is a prominent South African billionaire businessman, investor, and banker. He stands as one of the pioneering founders of FirstRand Limited, a significant financial institution in South Africa. Wikipedia
Born: April 6, 1948 (age 75 years)
Children: 2
Organization founded: FirstRand
Alma mater: University of Stellenbosch
Gus Attridge – R5.7 billion
Michael Guy Attridge, also recognized by the name Gus Attridge, is a distinguished South African businessman. He holds the role of deputy CEO within Aspen Pharmacare, a company he co-established alongside Stephen Saad in 1997. Notably, in 2013, Attridge’s personal stake of 4% in the company was valued at an impressive sum of over $320 million. Wikipedia
Age:62
Source of Wealth: harmaceuticals, Self Made
Residence: South Africa
Citizenship: South Africa
Desmond Sacco – R4.73 billion
Desmond Sacco is a notable South African businessman. He holds the esteemed positions of Chairman and Managing Director at Assore Limited (JSE: ASR), a significant company in the mining industry. Wikipedia
Age: 80
Source of Wealth: mining
Residence: Johannesburg, South Africa
Citizenship: South Africa
Marital Status: Married
Children 2
Education: Bachelor of Arts/Science, University of the Witwatersrand
Mark Shuttleworth – R4.73 billion
Mark Richard Shuttleworth, a distinguished entrepreneur hailing from both South Africa and Britain, is renowned as the founder and CEO of Canonical, the company responsible for the development of the Linux-based Ubuntu operating system. Notably, in 2002, Shuttleworth achieved the distinction of becoming the first South African to embark on a journey to space, marking his status as a space tourist. Wikipedia
Born: September 18, 1973 (age 49 years), Welkom, South Africa
Education: University of Cape Town (1996), MORE
Siblings: BradleyShuttleworth, Grant Shuttleworth
Organizations founded: Canonical, Thawte, Shuttleworth Foundation, Ubuntu Foundation
Nationality: British, South African
Parents: Richard Dalton Shuttleworth, Ronelle Shuttleworth
Missions: Soyuz TM-34/TM-33
Tokyo Sexwale -R2.9 billion
Mosima Gabriel “Tokyo” Sexwale, with the Venda pronunciation [sexwále], was born on March 5, 1953. He is a distinguished South African figure, celebrated for his roles as a businessman, politician, anti-apartheid activist, and former political prisoner. Sexwale’s commitment to the anti-apartheid cause led to his imprisonment on Robben Island, where he stood alongside notable figures such as Nelson Mandela. Read More About
Born: March 5, 1953 (age 70 years), Soweto, South Africa
Spouse: Judy van Vuuren (m. 1993–2014)
Children: Gabrielle Sexwale, Chris Sexwale
Previous offices: Minister of Human Settlements of South Africa (2009–2013), Premier of Gauteng (1994–1998)
Full name: Tokyo Mosima Gabriel Sexwale
Education: Orlando West High School (1973), MORE
Parents: Godlieve Sexwale, Frank Sexwale
Sipho Nkosi – R1.9 billion
Sipho Caiphas “KK” Nkosi is a prominent South African politician associated with the African National Congress. He has served as a representative in the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature since 2009. Notably, in 2014, he assumed the role of chairperson for the legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Finance. Wikipedia
Party: African National Congress
Office: Member of the KwaZulu-Natal Executive Council since 2023
Black Coffee -R933 million
Nkosinathi Innocent Maphumulo, widely recognized by his stage name Black Coffee, is a prominent South African DJ, record producer, and songwriter. He has significantly contributed to the music scene, creating a notable impact. Notably, Coffee founded his own record label, Soulistic Music. He introduced his debut self-titled album “Black Coffee,” a work that skillfully combines elements of R&B and jazz, showcasing his artistic versatility. Wikipedia
Born: March 11, 1976 (age 47 years), Umlazi, South Africa
Spouse: Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa (m. 2011–2019)
Record label: Soulistic Music
Children: Esona Maphumulo, Anesu Maphumulo, Lilitha Maphumulo, Asante Maphumulo
Mike Teke – R682 million
Mike holds the position of Non-Executive Chairman at Anchor Group, a company listed on the JSE Altx. Additionally, he serves as the Non-Executive Chairman of Tellumat. Moreover, Mike is the driving force as the founding and controlling shareholder of Dedicoal, a service-focused mining and beneficiation entity that operates within the South African mining industry. Read More about
Born on August 15, 1964, 55 years
Wife: Sandi
Children: Boikanyo, Tshiamo
Saki Macozoma – R565 million
Sakumzi Justice Macozoma, once a political prisoner in South Africa, has transformed into one of the country’s most prominent businessmen and a notable figure in civil society leadership.
Born: May 12, 1957 (age 66 years), Gqeberha, South Africa
Children: Luyanda Macozoma
Education: Boston University
Party: African National Congress
Richard Maponya -R400 million
Richard John Pelwana Maponya, GCOB, was a distinguished South African entrepreneur and property developer renowned for his remarkable achievements in building a business empire despite the constraints of apartheid. His resolute commitment to driving economic development in the Soweto township remains a testament to his vision and determination. Wikipedia
Born: December 24, 1920, Limpopo, South Africa
Died: January 6, 2020
Children: Chichi Maponya
Date of burial: January 14, 2020
Jacob Zuma – R290 million
Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma is a prominent South African politician who held the position of the fourth president of South Africa from 2009 to 2018. He is often identified by his initials JZ and is also recognized by his clan name, Msholozi. Wikipedia
Born: April 12, 1942 (age 81 years), Nkandla, South Africa
Children: Duduzile Zuma, Mxolisi Zuma, Duduzane Zuma, MORE
Spouse: Gloria Bongekile Ngema (m. 2012), MORE
Previous offices: President of South Africa (2009–2018), MORE
Presidential term: May 9, 2009 – February 14, 2018
Siblings: Michael Zuma, Joseph Zuma, Muthukabongwa Zuma, Khanya Zuma
Party: African National Congress
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