Strive T. Masiyiwa, a Zimbabwean business magnate based in London, stands as a towering figure in the realm of telecommunications and philanthropy. As the founder and executive chairman of the Econet Group and Cassava Technologies, Masiyiwa has been at the forefront of Africa’s digital revolution. His ventures span multiple continents, impacting millions of lives through innovative solutions in telecoms, digital services, and social impact initiatives.
Masiyiwa’s journey began with a solid educational foundation, earning a bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronic engineering from the University of Cardiff. Returning to Zimbabwe after independence, he worked as a telecoms engineer before founding his first business in 1986. Over the years, he established Econet Wireless, which became a leading telecom operator in Africa. His vision extended beyond traditional telecom services, leading to the creation of Cassava Technologies, which encompasses Africa’s largest open-access cross-border fibre broadband network, data centres, and fintech solutions.
Beyond his business acumen, Masiyiwa is renowned for his philanthropic efforts. In 1996, he and his wife Tsitsi co-founded the Higherlife Foundation, which has supported the education of over 300,000 orphaned and vulnerable children across Africa. His commitment to social impact is further demonstrated through Delta Philanthropies, focusing on health, rural transformation, and disaster preparedness. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Masiyiwa served as an African Union Special Envoy, coordinating efforts to procure medical supplies and vaccines, showcasing his dedication to the continent’s well-being.
Masiyiwa’s influence extends to numerous international boards, including Unilever, Netflix, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. His accolades, such as being named one of Fortune Magazine’s “World’s 50 Greatest Leaders” and receiving the Norman Borlaug Medallion for his work with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), underscore his impact. Strive Masiyiwa’s legacy is one of innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to uplifting Africa through both technological advancement and philanthropy.
