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Infinity Media
- 4 Min Read
The 7 Wealthiest Indigenes Of The Northern Cape, South Africa
The Northern Cape, the largest province in South Africa by land area, is known for its vast mineral wealth, including diamonds, iron ore, and manganese. Though it is the least populated province, it has produced individuals who have made significant contributions to business, mining, agriculture, and other industries. These individuals have built fortunes through hard work, strategic investments, and a deep understanding of the economic opportunities available in the region. In this blog post, we explore the seven wealthiest individuals who hail from the Northern Cape.
1. Saki Macozoma – Mining and Business
Saki Macozoma, born in the Northern Cape, is one of South Africa's most prominent businessmen. His career began in politics before transitioning into the corporate world, where he made a significant impact in the mining industry. Macozoma was instrumental in the development of the Tshipi Borwa mine, one of the largest manganese mining operations in the Northern Cape.
He has served in executive positions in major corporations, including Standard Bank and Transnet. His investments in mining and financial services have earned him considerable wealth, making him one of the richest figures from the Northern Cape.
2. Patrice Motsepe – Mining Tycoon
Although Patrice Motsepe was born in Soweto, his family has deep roots in the Northern Cape mining sector. His company, African Rainbow Minerals (ARM), has vast operations in the province, particularly in manganese and iron ore. Motsepe leveraged South Africa’s Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policies to acquire mining assets, turning them into profitable ventures.
With an estimated net worth of over $2.9 billion, Motsepe is one of the wealthiest people in South Africa and has had a lasting economic influence on the Northern Cape through job creation and industrial development.
3. Desmond Sacco – Mining and Minerals
Desmond Sacco, chairman and major shareholder of Assore Limited, has strong ties to the Northern Cape’s mining industry. His company is involved in the extraction of iron ore and manganese, with significant operations in the Khumani mine. Under his leadership, Assore has expanded its operations, further tapping into the province’s vast mineral reserves.
His success in the mining sector has positioned him as one of the wealthiest individuals linked to the Northern Cape, with a fortune exceeding $1 billion.
4. Brian Gilbertson – Industrialist and Mining Leader
Brian Gilbertson is another influential figure in South Africa’s mining industry with direct ties to the Northern Cape. As a former head of BHP Billiton, one of the world’s largest mining companies, Gilbertson has overseen significant projects in the province. His ventures, including Pallinghurst Resources, have invested heavily in the mining sector, particularly in manganese extraction.
Through his strategic investments and leadership roles, Gilbertson has amassed substantial wealth, securing his place among the richest individuals associated with the Northern Cape.
5. Steven Saad – Pharmaceuticals and Business Investments
Steven Saad, co-founder and CEO of Aspen Pharmacare, is one of South Africa’s wealthiest entrepreneurs. Although primarily involved in the pharmaceutical industry, Saad has expanded his investments into various sectors, including mining and agriculture in the Northern Cape.
His business acumen and ability to identify lucrative opportunities have led to a personal fortune exceeding $1 billion. His influence extends beyond pharmaceuticals, as he plays a role in the province’s broader economic landscape.
6. Allan Gray – Investment and Finance
The late Allan Gray was a pioneering investment manager and the founder of Allan Gray Investment Management. His firm has made substantial investments in mining and other industries in the Northern Cape. Through his investment philosophy, he played a critical role in financing projects that contributed to the province’s economic growth.
Gray’s legacy continues to shape South Africa’s financial sector, with his firm managing billions in assets and maintaining strong investment interests in the Northern Cape.
7. Andile Ngcaba – Technology and Telecommunications
Andile Ngcaba, originally from the Northern Cape, has built a fortune in the technology and telecommunications industry. He is the chairman of Convergence Partners, a firm that has invested heavily in Africa’s digital infrastructure. His influence extends to the mining sector, where he has facilitated technological advancements that optimize mineral extraction and production processes.
With a keen focus on innovation, Ngcaba’s wealth and business expertise place him among the most successful individuals from the Northern Cape.
Conclusion
The Northern Cape may be sparsely populated, but it has produced individuals who have left an indelible mark on South Africa’s economy. These seven wealthy individuals have harnessed the province’s natural resources, invested in diverse industries, and contributed to the country’s economic growth. Whether in mining, finance, technology, or pharmaceuticals, they have demonstrated that the Northern Cape is a land of opportunity for those who recognize its potential.
As the province continues to develop, it is likely that new entrepreneurs and business leaders will emerge, further shaping its economic future.
