Bill Gates has announced ambitious plans to donate nearly all of his $200 billion fortune through his philanthropic foundation over the next two decades, with a significant focus on initiatives aimed at improving life in Africa. Speaking at the African Union’s Nelson Mandela Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Gates emphasized his commitment to addressing pressing challenges within the continent.
In a recent interview, Gates mentioned that he was inspired by Andrew Carnegie’s notion that “the man who dies thus rich dies disgraced,” prompting him to give away up to 99% of his wealth by 2045. Currently valued at approximately $108 billion, Gates expressed his desire to partner with governments that prioritize the health and education of their citizens, asserting that enhanced well-being could lead to a prosperous path for every African nation.
Gates’s pledge comes at a time when U.S. foreign aid has seen reductions. The Trump administration had notably cut funding and staff from the U.S. Agency for International Development, making Gates’s commitment vital for continued support for health and educational initiatives across Africa.
With a gathering of 12,000 officials, diplomats, and leaders from various sectors attending the event, Gates highlighted that “by unleashing human potential through health and education,” countries in Africa could navigate their own paths towards prosperity. His focus aligns with broader humanitarian goals and the essential need for international partnership in tackling global issues.
Overall, Gates’s pledge represents a significant investment in the future of African development, embodying a hopeful vision of partnership and empowerment that can drive meaningful change in communities across the continent.