Bill Gates Commits $200 Billion to Africa’s Health and Education Over 20 Years

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates announced that he will spend most of his fortune on health and education initiatives in Africa over the next two decades. Speaking at the African Union (AU) headquarters on June 3, 2025, Gates, 69, emphasized the importance of empowering the continent’s youth through innovation.

Gates, who has pledged to give away 99% of his wealth, expects his fortune to reach approximately $200 billion by 2045. He stated that his foundation would focus the majority of its funding on addressing critical challenges in Africa. “By unleashing human potential through health and education, every country in Africa should be on a path to prosperity,” Gates said.

Former Mozambique First Lady Graça Machel welcomed Gates’ announcement, calling it timely. “We are counting on Mr. Gates’ steadfast commitment to continue walking this path of transformation alongside us,” she said. Gates’ decision comes at a time when U.S. aid to Africa has been reduced, raising concerns about healthcare access on the continent.

The Gates Foundation, which has been operational in Africa for many years, aims to enhance primary healthcare services. Gates highlighted that ensuring mothers receive proper nutrition before and during pregnancy is crucial for improving child health outcomes. “Ensuring the child receives good nutrition in their first four years makes all the difference,” he stated.

In his speech, Gates encouraged young innovators in Africa to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in developing healthcare solutions. He noted that the mobile banking revolution in Africa could serve as a model. “Africa largely skipped traditional banking, and now you have a chance to think about how AI can be integrated into your healthcare systems,” Gates said.

He pointed to Rwanda as a leader in utilizing AI-enabled ultrasound technology for monitoring high-risk pregnancies. The Gates Foundation has identified three key priorities: eliminating preventable maternal and infant deaths, preventing infectious diseases in the next generation, and lifting millions out of poverty.

As Gates accelerates his philanthropic efforts, he expressed his desire to leave a lasting impact. “People will say many things about me when I die, but I am determined that ‘he died rich’ will not be one of them,” he stated. His lifelong ambition has been inspired by other philanthropists, including Warren Buffett.

Gates’ announcement reflects a significant shift in his focus toward Africa, where his foundation aims to increase its commitment to health and education initiatives. “Our first African office was established in Ethiopia about 13 years ago. Now we have offices in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Senegal,” he explained. He is set to travel to Nigeria following his visit to Ethiopia, where he will meet with government officials to discuss primary healthcare reforms.