Ranking of the Wealthiest African Bank Founders in 2025
In the dynamic world of African finance, a select group of visionaries has left an indelible mark, transforming small banking institutions into regional powerhouses and championing financial inclusion across the continent.
One such visionary is Suresh Bhagwanji Shah, the founder of I&M Holdings Plc, a financial services group operating in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda. Starting from a humble beginning as a small bank, Shah's leadership propelled the group to become a publicly traded regional player.
Idrissa Nassa, the founder of Coris Bank International, is another trailblazer. His banking group, with branches in West and Central Africa, focuses on supporting small and medium-sized businesses and big companies, making a significant impact in the region's economic growth.
Hitesh Anadkat, founder and significant shareholder of FMBcapital Group, and Thom Mpinganjira, founder of FDH Financial Holdings, are also making strides in several Southern and East African countries. Both groups operate in various sectors, including banks, investments, and insurance companies.
Jim Ovia, the founder and chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, stands out in Nigeria's financial sector. Known for its technological leadership and consistent profitability, Zenith Bank is one of the country's biggest and most profitable banks.
Othman Benjelloun, CEO of BMCE Bank of Africa, is a continental player, operating in over 20 African countries. Under his leadership, the bank has made significant strides in promoting regional expansion and financial inclusion.
Michiel Le Roux, co-founder of Capitec Bank, has disrupted the traditional banking landscape in Africa with his pioneering retail banking institution. Capitec's focus on simplicity, affordability, and financial education has made banking accessible to a broader population.
Patrice Motsepe, South Africa's first black billionaire, is another notable figure. Through African Rainbow Capital (ARC), Motsepe has made significant contributions to the financial sector, focusing on financial services, fintech, and renewable energy. His efforts aim to promote inclusive economic growth in South Africa.
While the top richest bank founders in Africa as of 2025 are not fully detailed in the available information, two figures stand out. Patrice Motsepe, with a net worth of approximately $3.2 billion, has made significant contributions to the financial sector, backing digital banking platforms like Tyme Group. Michiel Le Roux, co-founder of Capitec Bank, has been instrumental in expanding access to banking services for the broader population.
Other notable figures include Othman Benjelloun and Dr. James Mwangi of Equity Group, who have played pivotal roles in promoting financial inclusion and regional leadership in East Africa.
In conclusion, these visionary founders have shaped the African financial landscape by promoting financial inclusion, innovation, and regional expansion. However, for a comprehensive list of the top 10 richest bank founders in Africa, additional sources or specific rankings might be necessary.
Suresh Bhagwanji Shah, Idrissa Nassa, Hitesh Anadkat, Thom Mpinganjira, Jim Ovia, Othman Benjelloun, Michiel Le Roux, and Patrice Motsepe have all made significant impacts in different African countries, transforming small banking institutions into regional powerhouses and contributing to the growth of various industries, including finance and business. Patrice Motsepe, through African Rainbow Capital, and Michiel Le Roux, co-founder of Capitec Bank, have been instrumental in promoting digital finance and expanding access to banking services.
