Philanthropists in Africa Changing Lives

Devoted to Africa

There are several exceptional individuals who are devoting countless hours and dollars to improving the lives of others in Africa. The continent has many problems that include poverty, lack of healthcare services and educational limitations. Despite the unique difficulties faced by African countries, these philanthropists work diligently towards raising the quality of life for the continent and its people.

Extraordinary Givers

It takes a remarkable person to devote their resources to others. On this website, we explore the lives of some of these individuals, who are making a drastic impact on African lives.

Philanthropy is thriving in Africa like never before

Philanthropy on the African continent has been transformed in unexpected ways. Between 2000 and 2013 the number of very wealthy individuals grew by 150%. This means that Africa now has over 160,000 super rich people with a net worth of more than US$660 billion. This has given rise to a strategic and sophisticated culture of formalised philanthropy targeting health, education, disaster relief and more. While funding has become increasingly available, it takes a philanthropic heart to distribute the funding into the necessary channels.

The Face of African Philanthropy is Shifting

Rising from the depths of the global economic downturn, there is a new kind of philanthropist in Africa. Instead of the customary once-off donations, this generation of givers are actively digging deep and giving back to their communities. They are making long-term commitments to sustainable growth in the local communities. It goes beyond the super wealthy shelling out extra money – their initiatives are about creating genuine change.

Philanthropists are increasingly focused on the underprivileged youth of Africa, and on developing their futures by providing previously impossible opportunities for improvement and growth. There is also a trend of contributing directly to community needs by improving infrastructure, healthcare and job opportunities. Philanthropists are highly responsive to national calamities like famine, floods and the outbreak of diseases.

Extraordinary Givers

It is estimated that over US$7 billion is given by philanthropists in Africa every year. It takes a remarkable person to devote their resources to others. Although Africa’s greatest philanthropists are extremely wealthy, most of them are also self-starters with an entrepreneurial spirit. These individuals are embracing the concept of, ‘paying it forward’ and they are passionate about supporting and developing others through creating opportunity and providing support required.

Africa’s great givers not only consist of businessmen, artists, professional athletes and celebrities, there are also many philanthropists who only give anonymously. This could be for personal or spiritual reasons, or simply because they are humble and prefer not to have the limelight on them. While it is not possible to give the anonymous donors credit for their selfless contributions, we can celebrate those who are known. On this website we explore the lives of the exceptional philanthropists in Africa who are making a massive positive impact on African lives.