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In the last year, the collective wealth of Africa’s 19 billionaires stands at an estimated $81.5 billion, reflecting a decline from the previous year’s $84.9 billion, attributed in part to the performance of their business empires according to Forbes.
While the spotlight emphasizes on the wealth and business lifestyles of these prominent individuals, the women who stand beside them remain somewhat obscure in the public eye, despite playing pivotal roles.
This phenomenon underscores the enduring truth that behind every successful man there is a high probability of an industrious woman.
Though these women have successfully carved out niches for themselves beyond their roles as spouses to these influential men, they often find themselves overshadowed by their husbands’ societal influence.
Without further delay, see the profiles of six spouses of some of Africa’s wealthiest individuals. These women not only contribute to the success of their families but have also established their presence, either by serving on company boards as directors or leading personal business courses across diverse industries.
6. Sherine Magar
Sherine Magar is the wife of Egypt’s richest man, Nasseff Sawiris who is worth $6.8 billion according to Forbes. Although not much is known about her, reports show that she serves as an ambassador for the London-based charity Chain of Hope, which works to provide cardiac care to children around the world.
Her experience includes serving on the acquisition committee at Tate Modern, London, for several years. She is also a member of the board of trustees of The American School in London, which is chaired by David Novak, assisted by Erin Roth.
5. Tsitsi Masiyiwa
Tsitsi Masiyiwa, spouse of Zimbabwe’s wealthiest individual, Strive Masiyiwa, who founded Econet, is a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s human capital development.
Recognized as an African social entrepreneur and philanthropist, she co-founded the Higherlife Foundation, dedicated to investing in human capital for vibrant individuals, communities, and sustainable livelihoods.
As the founder of Delta Philanthropies, Tsitsi drives impact investing and grant-making, fostering innovative poverty elimination solutions through strategic partnerships.
In 2022, she initiated the Africa Gender Initiative, aiming to raise $50 million from African philanthropists to support Co-Impact’s $1 billion gender fund. Tsitsi, a global philanthropic leader, has been a Giving Pledge signatory since 2014 and holds key roles in numerous international advisory boards and initiatives.
4. Gaynor Rupert
Gaynor Rupert, spouse of Africa’s second wealthiest individual, Johann Rupert, is a racehorse breeder and manager of their renowned Drakenstein Stud Farm.
Spanning 130 hectares on the lower slopes of the L’Ormarins Wine Estate, her Stud Farm is a dominant force in South African racing.
Notably, Gaynor has bred three of South Africa’s current top four horses, including Jet Dark, Safe Passage, and Rain in Holland.
