Faith Nyasuguta
American billionaire and philanthropist Bill Gates has pledged to direct the vast majority of his estimated $200 billion fortune toward transforming health and education systems across Africa over the next two decades. Speaking at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Gates emphasized the importance of unlocking human potential through better access to quality services.
“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,” he said during his address.
At 69, Gates is preparing for a philanthropic wind-down that will reshape global giving. Last month, he announced plans to donate 99% of his personal fortune by 2045, the year the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is expected to conclude its operations. The foundation, co-founded with Melinda French Gates in 2000, has already disbursed over $100 billion toward global health and development causes.
Though Gates plans to part with nearly all of his wealth, Bloomberg notes that he would likely remain a billionaire due to the scale of his assets. Still, his commitment marks one of the most ambitious philanthropic efforts in modern history, particularly aimed at a continent often overlooked in global investment strategies.
The focus on Africa comes at a critical time. Cuts to U.S. foreign aid under President Donald Trump, including reductions to lifesaving HIV/AIDS programs, have raised concerns about the sustainability of healthcare across the continent. Gates said his foundation will step up where others may be stepping back, prioritizing the strengthening of primary health care systems.
He also called on Africa’s youth to embrace emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) to solve pressing challenges in healthcare. Citing Rwanda’s use of AI-powered ultrasound to identify high-risk pregnancies, Gates pointed to innovation as a key ingredient in improving life expectancy and health outcomes across the region.
His message to Africa was clear: with better education, stronger health systems, and the power of innovation, the continent can unlock the full potential of its people.
Gates’ pledge signals not just a financial shift, but a powerful endorsement of Africa’s future. As traditional donors retreat, one of the world’s richest men is doubling down on a long-term vision of transformation.
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