Africa, often referred to as the youngest continent, is home to a vibrant and ambitious youth population, with over 60% of its citizens under the age of 25. However, when it comes to the wealthiest individuals, the picture is quite different. The continent's richest people are not the young and innovative faces driving today's trends, but rather seasoned veterans who have spent decades building their empires and solidifying their legacies.

According to a recent report by Forbes, Nathan Kirsh, 93, holds the title of the oldest billionaire in Africa, with a net worth of $7.3 billion. His wealth comes from ventures in retail and real estate, making him a prominent figure from Eswatini. Following closely is Othman Benjelloun, 92, whose $1.6 billion fortune stems from banking and insurance in Morocco. Christoffel Wiese from South Africa, an 83-year-old retail magnate with a net worth of $1.6 billion, comes third.

The list of the top 10 oldest billionaires in Africa at the start of 2025 is dominated by individuals who have built their wealth through traditional industries such as energy, real estate, and manufacturing. These sectors require time, experience, and entrenched networks to navigate successfully. The elderly billionaires are products of their time, having begun their journeys when industries were nascent, laying the foundations for sectors that would grow alongside the continent's economies.

While the youth drive conversations around technology, climate action, and social innovation, the continent's wealthiest individuals still dominate through traditional industries. This raises questions about the dynamics of wealth accumulation, legacy, and the barriers to generational wealth transfer in Africa. The persistence of older generations at the top of the wealth ladder is not unique to Africa, but it is particularly striking in a continent bursting with youthful talent and ambition.

The top 10 oldest billionaires in Africa at the start of 2025 are:

The story of Africa's oldest billionaires serves as a reminder of the importance of legacy and the need for generational wealth transfer in the continent. As the youth continue to drive innovation and progress, it is essential to create opportunities for them to build their own empires and solidify their legacies.

In conclusion, the dominance of older generations at the top of the wealth ladder in Africa raises important questions about the dynamics of wealth accumulation and legacy in the continent. As the continent continues to evolve, it is crucial to create opportunities for the youth to build their own wealth and solidify their legacies, ensuring a brighter future for Africa.