Africa is full of talented entrepreneurs who are making big changes in the world. Here are five amazing African entrepreneurs who have become very successful. Let’s learn about their journeys and see what their businesses does.
1. Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu (Ethiopia) – Net Worth: Over $1 Million
Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu is the founder of SoleRebels, a famous African shoe brand. Her shoes are special because they are eco-friendly, made from recycled materials. These shoes are sold in more than 50 countries, including the USA, Canada, Japan, and Switzerland. Bethlehem’s success story has been featured in well-known places like Forbes, BBC, and CNN. She is recognized as “One of The World’s Most Powerful Women.”
- Business Scope: SoleRebels makes and sells eco-friendly shoes. The shoes are made from recycled materials, like old tires and hand-spun cotton. This helps the environment and supports local communities by providing jobs.
2. Jason Njoku (Nigeria) – Net Worth: Estimated at $45 Million
Jason Njoku is the co-founder and CEO of IrokoTV, a popular online platform for African “Nollywood” movies. IrokoTV is often called the “Netflix of Africa” because it streams a wide variety of African movies. The company has attracted over $40 million in investment from international investors. Jason’s business continues to grow and expand across Africa.
- Business Scope: IrokoTV provides an online streaming service for Nollywood movies, making them accessible to a global audience. This platform helps to promote African cinema and provides entertainment to millions of people.
3. Patrick Ngowi (Tanzania) – Net Worth: Estimated at $15 Million
Patrick Ngowi is the founder of Helvetic Solar Contractors, a successful solar energy company in East Africa. He started his business when he was just 19 years old by selling Chinese-made mobile phones. Today, his company has installed over 6,000 small rooftop solar systems in Tanzania and other East African countries. Forbes has recognized him as one of “10 Young African Millionaires to Watch.”
- Business Scope: Helvetic Solar Contractors installs solar energy systems that provide clean and renewable energy to homes and businesses. This helps reduce reliance on traditional energy sources and promotes sustainable development.
4. Lorna Rutto (Kenya) – Net Worth: Undisclosed
Lorna Rutto is the founder of EcoPost, a company that recycles plastic waste into eco-friendly fencing posts. Her business helps to conserve forests in Kenya and has created hundreds of jobs. EcoPost has received investments from various international and local organizations, helping it to grow and make a positive impact.
- Business Scope: EcoPost collects and recycles plastic waste to create durable and eco-friendly fencing posts. This not only helps reduce plastic pollution but also provides an alternative to wooden posts, saving trees and forests.
5. Anna Phosa (South Africa) – Net Worth: Undisclosed
Anna Phosa is known as a “celebrity pig farmer” in South Africa. She started her pig farming business in Soweto with just $100 and 4 small pigs in 2004. Today, she has a contract with the South African supermarket chain Pick ‘n Pay to supply 100 pigs over the next five years. Her business has grown tremendously, showcasing her success in the farming industry.
- Business Scope: Anna’s pig farm produces pigs for meat, which she sells to supermarkets and other buyers. Her success in pig farming has provided her with financial stability and recognition in the agricultural sector.
These five African entrepreneurs have achieved remarkable financial success and have made significant contributions to their industries and communities. Their stories inspire others and demonstrate the immense potential of African entrepreneurship on the global stage.
