Strive Masiyiwa’s Empire Shaken by Currency Crisis — $100 Million Wiped Off Net Worth
Zimbabwe’s richest man, Strive Masiyiwa, has seen his net worth fall by $100 million in recent months, dropping from a peak of $1.3 billion in August to $1.2 billion, according to Forbes.
The decline follows a revaluation of his public holdings in Harare-listed companies, triggered by sweeping economic reforms and currency changes in Zimbabwe.
Masiyiwa, the founder and executive chairman of Econet Wireless, built his telecom empire from humble beginnings in the 1990s.
Today, his business interests span more than 20 countries, covering telecommunications, fintech, renewable energy, and philanthropy.
Despite his global reach, the billionaire’s fortune has not been immune to the economic turbulence in his home country.
In May, the Zimbabwean government introduced a new gold-backed currency known as ZiG in an effort to curb inflation and stabilize the economy.
However, the move unsettled investors and disrupted market confidence.
Liquidity tightened, exchange rates fluctuated, and corporate valuations across sectors — including Econet and its subsidiaries, suffered significant losses.
Masiyiwa’s year-to-date wealth decline now stands at $600 million, largely due to the revaluation of his stakes in Harare-listed firms.
As reported by iHarare and Zimceleb, the billionaire’s financial dip underscores how deeply Zimbabwe’s economic shifts can ripple through even the most resilient business empires.
The news sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with users expressing a mix of humor, concern, and admiration.
@E Muzonzini remarked, “1 munhu akaita billionaire at large nekutengesa airtime.”
@TUKAZ added, “Isusu vemusika ma sales akadzika tonzi tirimarombe 😢 honaiwo kana bhiliyoneee uyu zvotomushungurudzawo.”
@ƎƆIᗡ wrote, “God, I pray to reach a level where losing $100 million still doesn’t make me broke.”
Supporters also voiced optimism about Masiyiwa’s resilience.
@Tanaka Duduza Mpofu said, “Zviriko — he will come back stronger. Inga Liver yaka dropper wani ma points zuro 😢.”
@Tinotenda Makoto commented, “He invested that money. Just wait a year — you’ll see.”
@yours_kairo criticized pricing strategies, saying,
“You can’t call it SmartBiz, then switch to Smart Suite and charge us $70 per data bundle, Strive. Don’t faint on us — do better.”
Despite the setback, Masiyiwa remains one of Africa’s most influential entrepreneurs.
His long-term investments and global partnerships continue to anchor his business empire.
While the current dip reflects the volatility of Zimbabwe’s financial landscape, many believe Masiyiwa’s strategic foresight and diversified portfolio will help him rebound stronger.
