Strive Masiyiwa: Connecting a continent

In this episode of 'Good Bad Billionaire,' hosts Zing Sing and Simon Jack delve into the story of Strive Masiwa, Zimbabwe's first billionaire famous for transforming telecommunications in Africa. Masiwa, who was born in 1961 amid the tumultuous backdrop of Zimbabwe's decolonization, began his entrepreneurial journey at a young age influenced by his entrepreneurial mother.

After moving to Zambia during childhood and later studying in the UK, Masiwa started his career at the state-run phone company in Zimbabwe. Frustrated with bureaucracy, he launched Retrofit, a construction business that rapidly grew to employ hundreds. However, his ascent to billionaire status was complicated by his kidnapping in 1990, which he attributes to governmental tensions with then-President Mugabe.

Masiwa's real breakthrough came when he decided to enter the telecommunications market with his company Econet, pushing back against the government’s monopoly. His legal battles with Mugabe's regime were fraught with intimidation, yet he remained steadfast in his vision for communication technologies for Africa. After several years of struggle, Masiwa finally launched Econet in 1998, which quickly captured a significant market share, leading to his recognition as a billionaire.

Today, Masiwa focuses on philanthropy through the Higher Life Foundation and has made significant contributions to enhance digital infrastructure across Africa. He remains active in advocating for African business, leadership, and humanitarian causes, making him a prominent figure in both national and international circles.