Strive Masiyiwa
Strive Masiyiwa is a Zimbabwean entrepreneur, philanthropist, and visionary leader best known as the founder and executive chairman of Econet Global.
| Legal Name | Strive Masiyiwa |
|---|---|
| Born | January 29, 1961 (Age 64 Years) |
| Net Worth | 1.8 Billion ▲ |
| Companies |
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About
Strive Masiyiwa is a Zimbabwean entrepreneur, philanthropist, and one of Africa’s most influential business leaders. He is best known as the founder and executive chairman of Econet Global, a multinational telecommunications company that has revolutionized connectivity in Africa. Beyond business, Masiyiwa is a humanitarian who has dedicated significant resources to education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.
History
Strive Masiyiwa was born on January 29, 1961, in Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia), but spent much of his early childhood in Zambia due to political unrest in his home country. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in solving problems, which later shaped his entrepreneurial journey. In the 1990s, Masiyiwa gained international attention for his fight to establish Econet Wireless. Despite facing legal and political challenges from the Zimbabwean government, he successfully secured the country’s first privately owned telecommunications license in 1998, laying the foundation for Econet's growth across Africa and beyond [1].
Education & Career
Strive Masiyiwa received his early education in Zambia before moving to the United Kingdom to complete his studies. He earned an engineering degree from the University of Wales in 1983 and worked briefly in the UK before returning to Zimbabwe [2].
Masiyiwa’s career began in engineering, but he soon transitioned into entrepreneurship. He founded Econet Wireless in 1993 and, after years of legal battles, launched Zimbabwe's first privately-owned mobile network in 1998 [1]. Under his leadership, Econet Global expanded to operate in over 20 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
In addition to Econet, Masiyiwa has invested in renewable energy, fintech, and technology startups through his various ventures. He is also a member of several international boards, including Netflix and the Gates Foundation, reflecting his global influence [3]. He is now one of the richest people in Zimbabwe.
The lowest denomination circulating was $1. If you want to buy a packet of sweets for your child, you can’t get change. Today 43% of the GDP moves through Econet Wireless.
Masiyiwa said as he started his journey into fintech.
Family & Friends
Strive Masiyiwa is married to Tsitsi Masiyiwa, a philanthropist and co-founder of the Higherlife Foundation, a charitable organization supporting education and healthcare in Africa. Together, they have six children. Tsitsi plays a pivotal role in the family’s philanthropic initiatives, which have positively impacted millions of lives [4].
Masiyiwa’s friends and professional network include global leaders, business moguls, and philanthropists. His close relationships with influential figures like Bill Gates and Barack Obama highlight his stature in the international community [5]. Despite his immense success, Masiyiwa remains humble and committed to serving others, often citing his faith as a guiding principle in his work.