Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and well-known philanthropist, has announced that most of the $200 billion he plans to give away over the next 20 years will be dedicated to Africa.
Speaking at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Gates made clear his focus is on improving health and education across the continent.
"I recently made a commitment that my wealth will be given away over the next 20 years. The majority of that funding will be spent on helping you address challenges here in Africa," Gates told an audience of 12,000 government officials, health workers, and community leaders.
According to CBS News, Gates explained that by "unleashing human potential through health and education," African countries can find a path to lasting prosperity.
He expressed hope that this investment will empower communities and support governments committed to the well-being of their citizens.
This pledge is part of Gates' larger promise to donate 99% of his net worth, currently valued at $108 billion, by the year 2045.
Inspired by Andrew Carnegie's famous words that "the man who dies thus rich dies disgraced," Gates is determined to use his wealth for meaningful change.
Over the next two decades, his fortune is expected to shrink by 99% as it funds charitable causes worldwide.
“I recently made a commitment that my wealth will be given away over the next 20 years. The majority of that funding will be spent on helping you address challenges here in Africa.”
— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) June 2, 2025
~ Billion Gates pic.twitter.com/oCtU9zdxk3
Read more: Bill Gates Reveals He Didn't Feel 'Successful' for Decades: 'I Didn't Feel Comfortable Until 1998'
Gates Focuses on Health and Education to Unlock Africa's Potential
Gates' announcement comes during a time when foreign aid to Africa, particularly from the United States, has been reduced.
Under the previous US administration, funding for programs like HIV/AIDS treatment faced cuts, making Gates' commitment especially important.
Former Mozambican First Lady Graça Machel responded positively to the news, describing it as a sign of hope during challenging times, Finance Monthly said.
She shared her belief that Gates will continue to support Africa in its ongoing development.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which coordinates much of Gates' philanthropy, has long supported global health initiatives.
This renewed focus on Africa shows Gates' belief in the continent's potential and the power of education and health to unlock new opportunities.
For many at the event in Addis Ababa, Gates' commitment was seen as a hopeful sign for the future and continued progress.
By partnering with African governments and investing in people, he aims to help the continent overcome its challenges and grow stronger.
As Gates said, "By unleashing human potential through health and education, every country in Africa should be on a path to prosperity — and that path is an exciting thing to be part of."
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