Strive Masiyiwa’s net worth dips to $1.2 billion amid ZiG turmoil

Strive Masiyiwa’s wealth fell to $1.2 billion after peaking at $1.3 billion in August, representing a $100 million decline in recent months and $600 million since the start of the year. The Econet Wireless founder built his telecommunications empire from modest origins in the 1990s, expanding operations across more than 20 African countries while diversifying into fintech, renewable energy, and charitable work. Forbes attributes the decrease to revaluations of his publicly traded holdings on the Harare exchange after Zimbabwe introduced the gold-backed ZiG currency in May to combat inflation.

The currency change disrupted investor confidence and reduced corporate valuations across multiple sectors, affecting Masiyiwa’s stakes in Econet and subsidiary companies through decreased liquidity and unstable exchange rates. The businessman maintains his position among Africa’s most prominent entrepreneurs despite the setback. His global partnerships and long-term investments continue supporting his business interests, but the decline demonstrates Zimbabwe’s economic instability can impact even the most established fortunes in the region.