Tanzanian Mogul Mo Dewji Named East Africa’s Only Billionaire in 2025 Forbes List
Tanzanian businessman Mohammed Dewji, popularly known as Mo Dewji, has been recognized as East Africa’s only billionaire in Forbes’ 2025 rankings. With a net worth of $2.2 billion (Sh284.9 billion), Dewji has solidified his position as the wealthiest individual in the region and ranks 12th in Africa.
Rising Wealth and Business Influence
Dewji’s net worth has seen a steady increase from $1.8 billion (Sh233.1 billion) last year and $1.5 billion (Sh194.3 billion) in 2024. His business empire, Mohamed Enterprises Limited (MeTL), has been a key driver of his financial growth. The conglomerate operates in 10 African countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, and Uganda, with investments in textile manufacturing, flour milling, beverages, and edible oils.
Through MeTL, Dewji has created over 40,000 jobs across 126 businesses and aims to increase employment opportunities to 100,000 for Tanzanians and East Africans. “I am deeply committed to empowering my fellow Tanzanians and East Africans through job creation and sustainable business practices,” he stated.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Beyond business, Dewji is widely recognized for his philanthropic efforts. Through the Mo Dewji Foundation, he has worked with Tanzania’s Ministry of Water to drill, rehabilitate, and treat wells, providing over 15,000 people with access to clean drinking water. In 2016, he joined the Giving Pledge, committing to donate at least half of his fortune to charitable causes. “It is our duty to give back to society and create a lasting impact for future generations,” he said.
Africa’s Wealthiest Individuals
Dewji’s success comes at a time when Africa’s billionaires collectively hold a record-breaking $105 billion (Sh13.6 trillion) in wealth, up from $82.4 billion (Sh10.7 trillion) in 2024. Nigerian business tycoon Aliko Dangote remains Africa’s richest person for the 14th consecutive year, with a net worth of $23.9 billion (Sh3.1 trillion). His rise in wealth is attributed to the valuation of his oil refinery, which began operations in early 2024.
South African billionaire Johann Rupert follows in second place with $14 billion (Sh1.8 trillion), benefiting from his leadership of luxury brand conglomerate Compagnie Financiere Richemont. Nicky Oppenheimer, the heir to the De Beers diamond fortune, holds third place with $10.4 billion (Sh1.3 trillion).
Other notable African billionaires include:
- Nassef Sawiris (Egypt) – $9.6 billion (Sh1.2 trillion)
- Mike Adenuga (Nigeria) – $6.8 billion (Sh880.6 billion)
- Abdulsamad Rabiu (Nigeria) – $5.1 billion (Sh660.5 billion)
- Naguib Sawiris (Egypt) – $5 billion (Sh647.5 billion)
- Patrice Motsepe (South Africa) – $3 billion (Sh388.5 billion)
- Strive Masiyiwa (Zimbabwe) – $1.2 billion (Sh155.4 billion)
South Africa leads the continent with seven billionaires, followed by Nigeria and Egypt with four each. Morocco has three, while Algeria, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe each have one representative on the list.
East Africa’s Sole Representative
Despite East Africa’s growing economy, Dewji remains the region’s only billionaire on the prestigious Forbes list. His continued success highlights the potential for economic growth and investment in Tanzania and beyond. With his commitment to expanding business ventures and philanthropic efforts, Dewji’s influence in Africa’s financial landscape is set to grow further.
Forbes’ rankings are based on stock prices, currency exchange rates, and valuations of private businesses, ensuring an accurate measure of individual wealth. While net worth fluctuations are common due to market conditions, Dewji’s trajectory suggests a promising future for both his business empire and his impact on East Africa’s economy.
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Tanzanian Mogul Mo Dewji Named East Africa’s Only Billionaire in 2025 Forbes List