Top 10 Richest People in Zimbabwe and the Secrets Behind Their Wealth

When I think of Zimbabwe, the first name that comes to mind is Robert Mugabe. People often talk about the economic struggles the country faced during his leadership, but let’s not forget – he was a key figure in Zimbabwe’s history. Where I come from, we don’t speak ill of the dead.

But here’s something you might not have considered: Can Zimbabwe actually have very wealthy people?

If you are a Zimbabwean, let’s change the narrative, drop a comment and write one good thing about your country that people around the world actually don’t know.

I’ll go first – in this article, I’m going to highlight the top 10 richest people in Zimbabwe in 2025, and show us young Africans how we can learn from their journey to building wealth.

Let’s dive in!

1. Strive Masiyiwa – The Telecom Billionaire

Net Worth: $1.8 billion 

Industry: Telecommunications, Technology

Strive Masiyiwa is not just Zimbabwe’s richest man—he’s a symbol of vision and grit. Back in 1998, he fought the government to break the telecom monopoly and launched Econet Wireless. Today, his company operates in more than 20 African countries!

He also owns a big part of EcoCash, Zimbabwe’s most popular mobile money platform. Masiyiwa didn’t stop there—he moved into fintech, satellite communication, and renewable energy. Oh, and did I mention he sits on Netflix’s board?

Lesson: If the system blocks you, build your own. Fight for what you believe in. And once you make it, give back. His Higherlife Foundation is educating thousands across Africa.

2. Kudakwashe Tagwirei – The Energy King

Industry: Energy, Agriculture, Infrastructure

Net Worth: $850 Million

Tagwirei built Sakunda Holdings, a giant in Zimbabwe’s energy sector. He’s the man behind many fuel pumps in Zimbabwe and has also put money in farming, logistics, and infrastructure.

Even with critics and controversy surrounding him, he’s built serious influence in how Zimbabwe moves—literally and economically.

Lesson: Energy is power—literally. Look out for essential industries and be bold enough to enter them.

3. Kenneth Raydon Sharpe – The Real Estate Visionary

Industry: Real Estate

Net Worth: $730 Million

Kenneth Sharpe is changing the way Harare looks—one building at a time. Through West Property Group, he’s behind huge housing projects like Kuwadzana 4 Extension and Mainway Meadows.

He saw an opportunity in Zimbabwe’s housing shortage and jumped on it.

Lesson: People will always need homes. Real estate, when done right, is a solid way to build wealth and create lasting impact.

4. Zed Koudounaris – The Quiet Retail Giant

Industry: Retail, Manufacturing

Net Worth: $600 Million

Ever heard of Innscor Africa? Zed co-founded it. From bakeries to chicken outlets and distribution companies, Innscor is a household name across Zimbabwe and beyond.

Zed keeps a low profile, but his 2.5% stake in the company speaks volumes.

Lesson: You don’t need to be loud to be successful. Focus on building strong businesses that serve everyday needs.

5. Billy Rautenbach – The Mining Machine

Industry: Mining, Farming, Transport

Net Worth: $570 Million

Billy made his billions digging into the earth—literally. His mining businesses stretch across Zimbabwe, South Africa, Angola, and Mozambique. He also farms and runs transport businesses.

His story is one of bold risks and massive returns.

Lesson: Don’t be afraid of industries that look tough or dirty. Sometimes the biggest wealth comes from the hardest places.

6. Philip Chiyangwa – The Hustler with Many Hats

Industry: Real Estate, Manufacturing, Telecoms

Net Worth: $400 Million

Philip is a businessman, a politician, and quite the entertainer. But beyond the public image is a sharp entrepreneur. He owns Native Africa Investment Ltd. and Midiron Investments, which produce shoes, steel, and more.

He’s also big in property, with Pinnacle Property Holdings leading the charge.

Lesson: Diversify! Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Explore different industries and make your presence felt.

7. John Moxon – The Retail and Hospitality Mastermind

Industry: Retail, Hospitality, Agriculture

Net Worth: $380 Million

John Moxon leads Meikles Limited—a huge player in supermarkets, hotels, and even mining. He’s been in the game since 1970 and owns nearly half the company.

Though a recent leadership drama rocked his company (his son replaced the CEO while he was hospitalized), Moxon’s influence is still strong.

Lesson: Build legacy businesses that can run for decades. And train the next generation to take over when you can’t.

8. Moses Chingwena – Zimbabwe’s Auto Boss

Industry: Automobile, Finance, Real Estate

Net Worth: $250 Million

Moses Chingwena is the man behind Croco Motors, which sells top car brands like Ford, Toyota, and Nissan in Zimbabwe. But he didn’t stop at cars—he’s now into real estate, finance, and farming.

He’s built a brand that stands for quality and reliability.

Lesson: Start with one thing, do it well, then expand. Reputation is currency.

9. Shingai Mutasa – The Smart Investor

Industry: Finance, Tech, Real Estate, Agrochemicals

Net Worth: $220 Million

Shingai is the brains behind Masawara, a company listed in London. His investments are in almost everything—banks, malls, hotels, and chemical factories.

One of his biggest projects? Joina City Centre—the tallest mall in Harare.

Lesson: If you think big, play big. Look beyond your borders and aim for global relevance.

10. Ian Saunders – The Gold Guy

Industry: Mining

Net Worth: $190 Million

Ian Saunders leads New Dawn Mining Corp., specializing in gold mining. His company has helped expand Zimbabwe’s mining sector and create jobs.

He’s not flashy, but his gold speaks for him.

Lesson: Zimbabwe (just like Kenya) is rich in minerals. Think long-term and tap into natural resources the smart way.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for You

If there’s one thing these 10 men show us, it’s this:

✅ You don’t need perfect conditions to build wealth. Zimbabwe’s economy has faced huge challenges, yet these entrepreneurs pushed through.

✅ Diversification is key. Most of these men don’t rely on just one business. They spread their money across different industries.

✅ Find essential needs and solve them. Whether it’s communication, fuel, food, or homes—solve a real problem and money will follow.

✅ Give back. Many of these business leaders, like Masiyiwa, are also philanthropists. Wealth without impact is just noise.

What Can Young Africans Learn From This?

💡 Think beyond borders. Africa is full of opportunities.

💡 Don’t fear industries like farming, mining, or manufacturing. That’s where the real money is.

💡 Start small, but have a big vision. Every billionaire once had nothing.

💡 Create value before chasing wealth. If you serve people well, they’ll pay you.

Let Zimbabwe’s top 10 inspire your journey. One day, someone might be writing your name on Africa’s rich list.