Founder & Executive Chairman, Econet Global & Cassava Technologies
Strive Masiyiwa (born 29 January 1961) is a Zimbabwean-born billionaire entrepreneur, philanthropist, and one of Africa’s most influential business leaders. Based in London, he is the founder and executive chairman of Econet Global and Cassava Technologies, two international technology groups with operations spanning Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. As of January 2025, Forbes estimated his net worth at US$2.7 billion, cementing his place among Africa’s leading CEOs.
Early Life & Education
Masiyiwa was born in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and spent part of his childhood in Zambia before moving to Scotland for his secondary education. He later earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Wales in 1983. After working briefly in the UK’s computer industry, he returned to Zimbabwe in 1984, determined to contribute to the country’s post-war recovery.
Business Career
In 1993, Masiyiwa founded Econet Wireless, overcoming a five-year legal battle against Zimbabwe’s state monopoly to secure a license. His landmark victory opened Africa’s telecommunications sector to private investment. Econet Wireless Zimbabwe became one of the country’s largest companies, while Masiyiwa expanded internationally, creating Econet Global, with ventures across Africa, Europe, the US, Latin America, and Asia.
Among his most notable achievements is the development of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Africa’s largest fibre optic and satellite network, spanning over 110,000 km from Cape Town to Cairo. His companies now operate in diverse sectors including telecoms, fintech, cloud services, cybersecurity, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence.
Cassava Technologies
Masiyiwa also founded Cassava Technologies, a pan-African technology company operating extensive fibre networks and digital platforms. In 2025, Cassava announced plans to establish AI factories in South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, Nigeria, and Morocco, in partnership with Google, to accelerate Africa’s adoption of advanced AI systems. Cassava continues to drive innovation in connectivity, fintech, and digital transformation across the continent.
Philanthropy & Impact
Beyond business, Masiyiwa is a committed philanthropist. Through the Higherlife Foundation, he and his wife Tsitsi have supported the education of more than 40,000 children across Africa, including one of the continent’s largest scholarship programs. They are signatories of the Giving Pledge, dedicating much of their wealth to humanitarian causes.
Masiyiwa has championed initiatives in healthcare, agriculture, and climate action, serving as Chair of AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa) and co-founding the Carbon War Room with Sir Richard Branson. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was appointed African Union Special Envoy, coordinating the continent’s response and vaccine access.
Personal Life
Masiyiwa is a devout Christian, married to Tsitsi Masiyiwa, with whom he has six children. The family resides in London, though his influence and investments remain deeply rooted in Africa. In 2024, he became the first Black billionaire to feature on the Sunday Times Rich List with a net worth of US$3.1 billion.
Legacy
Strive Masiyiwa’s journey from a young engineer with $75 in savings to a global business leader epitomizes resilience, vision, and impact. His leadership has not only transformed Africa’s telecoms and technology landscape but also empowered millions through education, innovation, and philanthropy.
