| Legal Name | Strive Masiyiwa |
|---|---|
| Description | Strive Masiyiwa: Visionary entrepreneur, philanthropist, and founder of Econet Group, empowering millions through telecommunications and education initiatives across Africa. |
| Born | January 29, 1961 (Age 63 Years) |
| Education | University of Wales |
| Nationality | Zimbabwean |
| Wife | Tsitsi Masiyiwa |
| Children | Vimbai Masiyiwa, Joanna Masiyiwa, Tanya Masiyiwa, Esther Masiyiwa, Moses Masiyiwa, Sarah Masiyiwa |
Strive Masiyiwa
Founder and Chairman, Econet and Cassava Technologies
| Estimated Net Worth (USD) | $1.8 Billion ▼$-0.8 Billion (-45%) |
|---|
| Global Rank | - World Wide |
|---|---|
| Country Rank |  #1 |
| Industry Rank | #1 |
Background
Strive Masiyiwa, commonly known as Strive Masiwa, is a prominent African entrepreneur and philanthropist. He was born on January 29, 1961, in Zimbabwe. Growing up in a middle-class family, Masiyiwa showed early signs of ambition and determination, which would later shape his extraordinary journey to success.
Education
Masiyiwa pursued his education at the University of Wales in the United Kingdom, where he studied Electrical Engineering. After completing his degree, he returned to Zimbabwe with aspirations to make a positive impact on his homeland and the African continent as a whole.
Career
Strive Masiyiwa's entrepreneurial journey began with his first venture, a modest investment in a mobile phone repair business. He later co-founded the telecommunications company, Econet Wireless, in 1993, with a vision to revolutionize communication in Africa. However, his ambition was met with challenges as the Zimbabwean government initially denied his company a license to operate. Undeterred, Masiyiwa took the government to court and eventually won the landmark legal battle, setting the stage for the growth of Econet Group.
Under Masiyiwa's leadership, Econet Group has expanded its reach across multiple African countries, offering a range of telecommunications services, including mobile, internet, and satellite communications. The company has played a crucial role in bridging the digital divide in Africa and empowering millions with access to modern communication technologies.
Personal Life
Beyond his business ventures, Strive Masiyiwa is renowned for his philanthropic endeavors. He and his wife, Tsitsi Masiyiwa, established the Higherlife Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on education, health, and leadership development for African youth. Through this foundation, they have provided scholarships to thousands of underprivileged students, transforming their lives and communities.
Masiyiwa's dedication to social impact has earned him numerous awards and recognition, including being appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for the Eastern and Southern African region. His commitment to driving positive change and improving lives in Africa has made him a respected figure in both the business and humanitarian worlds.
Strive Masiyiwa's story exemplifies the power of entrepreneurship, resilience, and philanthropy. His contributions to the telecommunications industry and his unwavering commitment to uplifting African communities make him an inspirational figure and a symbol of hope for a brighter future in the continent.