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Richest Person in Tanzania
From a mud house in Singida to a multi‑billion dollar empire spanning 11 African countries — Mohammed Dewji (known universally as Mo Dewji) is not only the richest person in Tanzania but also East Africa’s sole billionaire and Africa’s youngest billionaire. This complete 2025–2026 guide explores his net worth, the MeTL Group, his remarkable rise from MP to business titan, his philanthropy, and his unforgettable 2018 kidnapping.
Mohammed Dewji is a household name in Tanzania and across East Africa. He is the Chief Executive Officer of Mohammed Enterprises Tanzania Limited (MeTL Group), a sprawling conglomerate that touches almost every sector of the Tanzanian economy: from textile manufacturing and flour milling to edible oils, beverages, agriculture, logistics, and real estate. With an estimated net worth of approximately $2.1 billion in 2026, he is not only the richest man in Tanzania but also the only billionaire in all of East Africa, according to Forbes. Dewji holds the unique distinction of being Africa’s youngest billionaire — at 51 years old, he is the only African billionaire under the age of 60. This guide provides a comprehensive, data‑driven exploration of Dewji’s rise to prominence, the inner workings of MeTL Group, his philanthropic impact through the Mohammed Dewji Foundation, his controversial kidnapping in 2018, his brief political career, and his ambitious plans to transform Tanzania into an agricultural powerhouse. For anyone interested in the economic engine of Tanzania, understanding Mo Dewji is essential.
I. At a Glance – Mohammed Dewji’s Profile (2025–2026)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name} | Mohammed Gulamabbas Dewji} |
| Popularly Known As} | Mo Dewji} |
| Born} | 8 May 1975 (age 51 in 2026)} |
| Birthplace} | Singida, Tanzania} |
| Net Worth (2026)} | $2.1 billion (Forbes estimate) [6†L19-L20]} |
| Source of Wealth} | Diversified (MeTL Group — manufacturing, agriculture, beverages, edible oils, textiles)} |
| Rank in Africa} | 14th (2026 Forbes Africa’s Richest List) [6†L8-L9]} |
| Rank in East Africa} | 1st — the only East African billionaire} | Age‑Adjusted Net Worth Estimate} | $3.69 billion (Grizzly Bulls) [10†L5-L8]} |
- 2026 (Forbes): $2.1 billion (down $100m from 2025) [15†L4-L7]
- 2025 (Forbes): $2.2 billion (peak) [3†L10-L14]
- March 2023 – March 2025: Rose from $1.5 billion to $2.2 billion — a $700m increase [15†L10-L13]
- 2022: $1.5 billion [5†L5-L6]
- 2013: $1.3 billion (Forbes Africa cover, “The $1.3 billion TSAR of Dar”) [4†L47-L49]
II. Who Is Mohammed Dewji? – Biography from Mud House to Boardroom
Mohammed Dewji was born on 8 May 1975 in Singida, central Tanzania, into a family of Gujarati Indian origin from the Khoja Ithna‑Asheri Muslim community. His ancestors migrated to East Africa in the late 19th century as traders. Dewji’s childhood was remarkably modest: he was born in a mud house and faced life‑threatening complications at birth — the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck, and he nearly died. He has recounted that the nearest hospital was 60 miles away, a journey his mother had to manage without modern ultrasound or emergency services.
His father, Gulamabbas Dewji, started a small trading business in the 1970s that would eventually become the MeTL Group. Dewji attended school in Arusha and later the International School of Tanganyika in Dar es Salaam before moving to the United States for higher education. He earned a bachelor’s degree in international business and finance, with a minor in Theology, from Georgetown University in 1998. After graduating, he returned to Tanzania and joined the family business, serving as Chief Financial Officer before assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, MeTL Group transformed from a commodities trading firm with about $30 million in annual revenue into a diversified conglomerate generating over $2 billion in annual revenue, employing tens of thousands of people, and operating in 11 African countries.
- Arusha School: Early primary education in Arusha.
- International School of Tanganyika, Dar es Salaam: Secondary education.
- Georgetown University, USA (1998): Bachelor’s degree in International Business and Finance, minor in Theology.
- Arnold Palmer Golf Academy: Attended prior to university (briefly).
III. MeTL Group – East Africa’s Largest Indigenous Industrial Company
Mohammed Dewji is the CEO and President of Mohammed Enterprises Tanzania Limited (MeTL Group), East Africa’s largest indigenous industrial company. Founded by his father in the 1970s as a modest trading business, MeTL has grown into a diversified conglomerate with annual revenues exceeding $2 billion. The group operates in 11 African countries, including Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and employs approximately 40,000 people — making it the second largest employer in Tanzania after the government.
| Sector | Key Products / Activities |
|---|---|
| Agribusiness & Farming} | Tea, avocados, sisal, cereals; operates 100,000+ hectares of mechanised farmland (under development).} |
| Food & Beverages} | Wheat flour, edible oils (palm, sunflower, corn), sugar, rice, Mo Cola soft drinks.} | Textile Manufacturing} | One of the largest textile producers in East Africa, supplying fabrics and garments.} | Energy & Logistics} | Fuel distribution, storage, and logistics across the region.} |
| Real Estate & Construction} | Commercial and residential real estate developments in Dar es Salaam and beyond.} |
Since Dewji assumed leadership in 2005, MeTL’s revenue has grown from $30 million to more than $2 billion — a 66‑fold increase. Much of this growth came from acquiring underperforming state‑owned companies during Tanzania’s privatisation drive in the early 2000s and turning them into profitable ventures. MeTL is vertically integrated across many sectors: for example, the group grows sisal, processes it into rope, and sells it to international buyers; it grows avocados that supply its own edible oil refineries; and it bottles Mo Cola, a soft drink created by Dewji himself, which competes directly with global giants like Coca‑Cola at a fraction of the price. The group’s strategy is simple: produce affordable goods for low‑ and middle‑income consumers while creating local jobs.
- Founded: 1970s by Gulamabbas Dewji.
- Annual revenue: Over $2 billion.
- Employees: Approximately 40,000 (target: 100,000).
- Countries of operation: 11 African countries.
- Contribution to GDP: Estimated to contribute approximately 3% of Tanzania’s GDP.
- Number of products: Over 150 distinct products.
IV. Net Worth Breakdown – 2025–2026 Fluctuations
Mohammed Dewji’s net worth has fluctuated in recent years, reflecting both the growth of MeTL Group and the impact of global economic conditions. In March 2023, his fortune stood at $1.5 billion. By March 2025, it had risen to $2.2 billion — a 46% increase in two years, driven by the expansion of MeTL’s manufacturing capacity, the launch of new product lines, and increased market share across East Africa. However, between March 2025 and March 2026, Dewji’s net worth declined by $100 million to $2.1 billion, according to Forbes estimates. This decline reflected broader global economic pressures: rising geopolitical tensions, higher energy costs (Brent crude oil climbed above $100 per barrel), and a reassessment of valuations for privately held conglomerates. Despite this decline, Dewji retained his position as Tanzania’s wealthiest individual and the only East African billionaire on the 2026 Forbes list.
Forbes calculates net worth based on stock prices and currency exchange rates (as of 1 March 2026). Dewji’s age‑adjusted net worth, a measure that accounts for the longevity of wealth, is estimated at $3.69 billion by the Grizzly Bulls Billionaire Index.
- 2026: $2.1 billion
- 2025: $2.2 billion (peak)
- 2024: $1.8 billion
- 2023: $1.5 billion
- 2022: $1.5 billion
- 2013: $1.3 billion
V. Philanthropy – The Giving Pledge and the Mohammed Dewji Foundation
In 2016, Mohammed Dewji signed the Giving Pledge, a commitment by the world’s wealthiest individuals to donate at least half of their fortune to philanthropic causes during their lifetimes. He is one of the few African signatories, joining Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, and other global philanthropists. At the time of signing, Dewji stated: “All these material comforts that surround us are temporary accessories and this is why, I decided a long time ago that I do not need any more personal wealth.”
His charitable arm, the Mohammed Dewji Foundation (MDF), focuses on water access, health, and economic empowerment. In partnership with Tanzania’s Ministry of Water, MDF has drilled, rehabilitated, and treated wells across Tanzania, benefiting over 15,000 people in rural communities. In 2023 alone, the foundation rehabilitated 18 wells and treated four others. Dewji’s long‑term goal includes rehabilitating 50 more wells and drilling 50 new ones to benefit an additional 15,000 Tanzanians. The foundation has also funded cataract surgeries, eye screenings, glasses, and other treatments for thousands of Tanzanians. In 2024, MDF funded life‑changing surgeries for children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. “These interventions are game‑changers,” Dewji said.
- 2016: Signed the Giving Pledge.
- Water access: Over 15,000 people provided with clean drinking water through MDF‑drilled wells.
- Health: Cataract surgeries, eye screenings, spina bifida surgeries, and general health interventions for thousands of Tanzanians.
- Future goal: 50 additional wells to benefit another 15,000 people.
VI. The 2018 Kidnapping – A Nation on Edge
On 11 October 2018, Mohammed Dewji was kidnapped at gunpoint while leaving a gym in Dar es Salaam. He was abducted by armed men in a vehicle and held for nine days. The kidnapping sent shockwaves through Tanzania and made international headlines. It was one of the highest‑profile abductions of a prominent business figure in East African history. He was released safely on 20 October 2018 after a ransom was reportedly paid, though Dewji has remained tight‑lipped about the details. The incident led to a major crackdown on crime and a review of security protocols for high‑profile individuals in Dar es Salaam. Dewji has said the experience profoundly affected him but did not deter his commitment to Tanzania. He continues to be an optimist about the country’s economic potential, saying, “I still believe in Tanzania.”
- Date of abduction: 11 October 2018.
- Location: Outside a gym in Dar es Salaam.
- Duration: 9 days.
- Release date: 20 October 2018.
- Outcome: Dewji was released unharmed. Suspects were later arrested and convicted.
VII. Political Career – Member of Parliament for Singida (2005–2015)
Before fully dedicating himself to business, Mohammed Dewji served as a Member of Parliament for Singida Urban constituency from 2005 to 2015 under Tanzania’s ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM). He was first elected at a young age (30) and won a strong mandate from his constituents. During his tenure, he focused on improving water access in the region — the percentage of residents with access to clean water rose from 27‑28% to 86‑88%. He stepped down after two terms to focus fully on expanding MeTL Group, citing his desire to create jobs and economic growth at a larger scale.
VIII. Mo Dewji in Context – Africa’s Billionaire Landscape (2026)
The 2026 Forbes Africa’s Billionaires list featured 23 billionaires with a combined wealth of $126.7 billion. Of these, 14 were self‑made (61%). No women appeared on the list. The regional breakdown is:
| Region / Country | Number of Billionaires | Top Representative | Net Worth |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Africa} | 7} | Johann Rupert} | $16.1bn} |
| Egypt} | 5} | Nassef Sawiris} | $9.6bn} |
| Nigeria} | 4} | Aliko Dangote} | $28.5bn} |
| Morocco} | 3} | Aziz Akhannouch} | $2.3bn} |
| Tanzania} | 1} | Mohammed Dewji} | $2.1bn} |
| Zimbabwe} | 1} | Strive Masiyiwa} | $2.1bn} |
Dewji is the only East African billionaire on the list and holds the distinction of being Africa’s youngest billionaire, as he is the only individual under 60 among Africa’s 23 wealthiest.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Richest Person in Tanzania
Who is the richest person in Tanzania in 2026?
Mohammed Dewji (Mo Dewji) is the richest person in Tanzania, with an estimated net worth of $2.1 billion according to Forbes 2026. He is also East Africa’s only billionaire and Africa’s youngest billionaire.
How did Mohammed Dewji make his fortune?
Dewji made his fortune as CEO of MeTL Group, a diversified conglomerate founded by his father. Under his leadership, MeTL expanded from a small trading business into a multi‑billion dollar operation spanning manufacturing, agriculture, beverages, edible oils, textiles, and logistics across 11 African countries.
Is Mohammed Dewji the only billionaire in East Africa?
Yes. According to Forbes 2026, Dewji is the sole East African billionaire. He ranks 14th in Africa overall. The combined wealth of Africa’s 23 billionaires is $126.7 billion.
Was Mohammed Dewji kidnapped?
Yes. On 11 October 2018, Dewji was kidnapped at gunpoint in Dar es Salaam and held for nine days. He was released unharmed on 20 October 2018.
What is the Giving Pledge and why did Dewji sign it?
The Giving Pledge is a commitment by the world’s wealthiest people to donate at least half of their wealth to philanthropy. Dewji signed in 2016, saying “material comforts are temporary accessories”. His foundation focuses on water access, health, and economic empowerment in Tanzania.
How much does MeTL Group contribute to Tanzania’s economy?
MeTL Group is the second largest employer in Tanzania after the government, with approximately 40,000 employees. It contributes an estimated 3% to Tanzania’s GDP and generates over $2 billion in annual revenue.
IX. Final Verdict – A Symbol of Tanzanian Enterprise
Mohammed Dewji is not merely a wealthy individual; he is a symbol of what Tanzanian enterprise can achieve. From a mud house in Singida to boardrooms in Dar es Salaam, his journey embodies the potential of Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit. His MeTL Group is a testament to the power of vertical integration and local manufacturing, creating tens of thousands of jobs and keeping essential goods affordable for millions of low‑income Tanzanians. His philanthropic commitments, especially to water access and health, have transformed rural communities. And his prominence on the global stage — as Africa’s youngest billionaire, a Giving Pledge signatory, and the sole East African representative on the Forbes list — reminds the world that Tanzania’s private sector is a force to be reckoned with. Dewji has faced significant challenges: a near‑death experience at birth, a high‑profile kidnapping in 2018, and the complex pressures of managing a sprawling business empire across volatile markets. Yet he remains publicly optimistic, investing $100 million of his own capital into a $250 million plan to mechanise 100,000 hectares of farmland, with the goal of making Africa a net food exporter. For anyone seeking to understand the engine of Tanzania’s economy, the story of Mohammed Dewji is a crucial chapter.