Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has committed to donating the majority of his $200 billion fortune to Africa over the next two decades, focusing on transforming health and education systems across the continent.
The pledge which he made during a speech at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa on June 2, 2025, comes after he had previously promised to donate all his wealth over the next two decades.
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“And in fact, one thing I haven’t said publicly is that as we think about the priorities and great partnerships we have majority of that funding will be spent helping you address challenges here in Africa,” Gates stated, revealing how he plans to disburse his wealth as promised.
Gates, the fifth-richest person in the world according to Bloomberg, stated that his foundation’s efforts will prioritize improving primary healthcare, expanding local vaccine and medicine manufacturing, and enhancing food security.
The Gates Foundation, which has a long-standing presence in Africa with offices in Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Senegal, has already invested heavily in the region.
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In Ethiopia alone, the foundation has contributed over $777 million to initiatives like maternal and child health, agricultural productivity, and nutrition programs.
Gates’ recent visit to Ethiopia included a meeting with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who honored him with the Ethiopia Special Order—the country’s highest state honor—for the foundation’s transformative work over the past 25 years.
Gates who is currently touring Africa js scheduled to travel to Nigeria this week to discuss primary healthcare reforms with President Bola Tinubu.
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