South African, Johann Rupert is Africa’s richest man. He took the baton from Nigeria’s Aliko Dangote who held the position for quite a while.
According the latest ranking from global wealth catalogue, Forbes, The business tycoon boasts a net worth of $10.3 billion as of January 2, 2023, outshining Dangote’s $9.5 billion.
In the global arena, Forbes’ ranking places Rupert at the 192nd position, a significant leap compared to Dangote’s standing at 230th.
World Richest Men according to Forbes.
This marks a notable shift in the dynamics of wealth in Africa, as Dangote, a familiar face at the helm for the past 12 years, relinquishes his long-standing reign.
Dangote’s journey to affluence hit its zenith in 2014, where his wealth soared past the $20 billion mark. However, the intervening years witnessed a decline, attributed mainly to the devaluation of Nigeria’s currency. His current net worth of $9.5 billion reflects a considerable decrease from the $25 billion pinnacle in 2014.
Contrastingly, on the Bloomberg billionaire list, Dangote manages to retain his supremacy as Africa’s wealthiest individual.
The rankings position him at 128th globally, boasting a net worth of $15.1 billion, a figure that overshadows Rupert’s $12.4 billion, securing him the 162nd position.
The shifting dynamics between Rupert and Dangote underscore the fluid nature of wealth in the contemporary business landscape.
The intrigue surrounding Africa’s richest personalities now adds an extra layer of fascination to the global financial market.
The tussle for the top spot is not merely a numerical contest but a reflection of the economic currents in Africa.
What could change?
Culled in by Fortune Omosola
