Ethiopia boasts a number of affluent entrepreneurs who have significantly contributed to the nation’s economic landscape. Here are the top 10 richest individuals in Ethiopia as of 2025:
1. Mohammed Al-Amoudi – $8.1 Billion
With an estimated net worth of $8.1 billion, Mohammed Al-Amoudi is Ethiopia’s wealthiest individual and one of Africa’s richest. His diversified business empire spans energy, real estate, and agriculture, with major holdings in Sweden, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia.
2. Eyob Mamo – $2.5 Billion
Eyob Mamo, often referred to as the “King of DC’s Gasoline Business,” controls 41% of gas stations in Washington D.C. through his company, Capital Petroleum Group. His net worth is estimated at $2.5 billion.
3. Samuel Tafesse – $1.6 Billion
A construction and real estate magnate, Samuel Tafesse is the owner and CEO of Sunshine Investment Group. His ventures include large-scale real estate developments, road and bridge projects, and hotel constructions. His net worth is approximately $1.6 billion.
4. Akiko Seyoum Ambaye – $1.2 Billion
As the CEO of Orchid Business Group, Akiko Seyoum Ambaye has secured lucrative government contracts, including projects like the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Her company also focuses on logistics and infrastructure, contributing to her substantial wealth.
5. Ketema Kebede – $1 Billion
Founder of KK Plc., Ketema Kebede has built a diverse business portfolio since 1976, encompassing agricultural exports, real estate, and construction equipment imports. His company is among Ethiopia’s largest exporters of coffee, spices, and cereals.
6. Belayneh Kindie – $950 Million
Starting with modest beginnings, Belayneh Kindie founded the Belayneh Kindie Group (BKG), which focuses on Arabica coffee export, oil seeds, nuts, manufacturing, agriculture, and the hotel industry.
7. Omer Ali Shifaw – $800 Million
Omer Ali Shifaw established Nejat International in 1990, focusing on coffee and roasted coffee, as well as food retailing. His net worth is estimated at $800 million.
8. Buzuayehu T. Bizenu – $750 Million
As the founder of East African Holding Share Company (EAHSC), Buzuayehu T. Bizenu’s conglomerate deals in manufacturing fast-moving consumer goods, printing and packaging, real estate, agriculture, cement production, coffee export, and coal mining.
9. Tewodros Ashenafi – $700 Million
Tewodros Ashenafi is the chairman and CEO of South West Energy, Ethiopia’s leading oil and gas exploration and production company. He also chairs the board of Ambo Mineral Water.
10. Tekleberhan Ambaye – $600 Million
Tekleberhan Ambaye is the founder of Tekleberhan Ambaye Construction Plc. (TACON), one of Ethiopia’s largest construction companies. Established in 1993 with a modest capital, TACON has grown into a major player in Ethiopia’s infrastructure sector, handling projects worth billions of Ethiopian birr. Beyond construction, Ambaye has diversified his investments, including ventures like Edna Mall, a leading entertainment hub in Addis Ababa. A new addition to the list, this individual has made a significant impact in Ethiopia’s business sector through ventures in manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics.
Conclusion
These wealthy individuals have significantly contributed to Ethiopia’s economic growth through their investments in various industries. Their success continues to shape the country’s business landscape, making Ethiopia a key player in Africa’s economic development.
