Quotes from Five Inspiring African Business Leaders
African Business Leaders on Success, Wealth and Purpose
How Africa's most successful entrepreneurs view money, responsibility, and the true meaning of wealth beyond bank accounts.
Dr. Mohammed "Mo" Ibrahim
"You stay divided; you stay backwards Africa."
On Wealth & Responsibility:
"Money is not the measure of success. Good governance is the fundamental issue facing Africa."
The Sudanese-British billionaire who sold Celtel for $3.4 billion believes wealth should serve society. Through his Mo Ibrahim Foundation, he's committed over $200 million to promoting leadership and governance, famously stating: "We need to change the concept that the only way for an African to become rich is through politics."
Aliko Dangote
"In whatever you do, strive to be the best at it."
On Wealth & Purpose:
"I don't believe you should run a business just to make money. If that's your motive, then you're better off not running a business."
Africa's richest person with a net worth exceeding $13 billion sees wealth as a tool for industrial transformation. He famously said: "We are not just building a business; we are building Nigeria." His $20 billion investments in refining and manufacturing aim to create value beyond personal wealth.
Stephen Saad
"Balance is important in life."
On Wealth & Balance:
"Success isn't just about financial gain; it's about making medicine accessible to those who need it most."
The Aspen Pharmacare founder built Africa's largest pharmaceutical company with a mission-driven approach. He emphasizes: "We measure our wealth by how many lives we can improve through affordable healthcare."
South African entrepreneur Stephen Saad founded Aspen Pharmacare, now one of Africa's largest pharmaceutical companies.
Patrice Motsepe
"Man cannot live by bread alone, which is correct, but man can also not live without bread."
On Wealth & Spirituality:
"God doesn't give you money and wealth for yourself. He gives it to you to look after and share with others."
South Africa's first black billionaire was one of the first Africans to sign The Giving Pledge, committing half his wealth to philanthropy. He states: "I never thought I would have this level of wealth. It comes with enormous responsibility to empower others."
Sudhir Ruparelia
"You need to go into the kind of business that suits your lifestyle, interests and passion so that you enjoy what you are doing."
On Wealth & Entrepreneurship:
"Money is just a scorecard. The real wealth is in building something sustainable that creates opportunities for others."
Uganda's richest man built an empire spanning banking, education and hospitality, believing: "True wealth is being able to wake up every day excited about what you're building. The money follows the passion, not the other way around."
Discover more about Sudhir Ruparelia, one of Uganda's most successful businessmen and philanthropists.
