Africa is home to some of the largest and wealthiest corporations, spanning industries such as oil and gas, telecommunications, mining, and retail. These companies play a crucial role in shaping the continent’s economy, providing employment, and driving innovation. Below is a list of the 30 richest companies in Africa as of the end of 2024, ranked by revenue in billions of U.S. dollars.

1. Sonatrach (Algeria) – $77.013 Billion

As Africa’s largest company, Sonatrach dominates the oil and gas sector. The Algerian state-owned firm is a significant global player, with vast reserves and extensive operations in petroleum extraction, refining, and export.

2. Eskom (South Africa) – $13.941 Billion

South Africa’s primary electricity provider, Eskom, is one of the continent’s largest utilities. Despite facing financial and operational challenges, it remains a critical entity in powering South Africa’s economy.

3. Sasol (South Africa) – $12.989 Billion

Sasol is a global leader in chemicals and energy, known for its pioneering gas-to-liquids (GTL) technology. It plays a key role in South Africa’s industrial and energy sectors.

4. MTN Group (South Africa) – $12.238 Billion

MTN is Africa’s largest telecommunications company, serving over 280 million subscribers across multiple countries. It has been a driving force in expanding mobile connectivity on the continent.

5. Shoprite Holdings (South Africa) – $10.802 Billion

As Africa’s largest retail chain, Shoprite operates in several countries, offering groceries, household items, and consumer goods. Its extensive reach makes it a dominant player in the African retail industry.

6. Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (Nigeria) – $9.706 Billion

Nigeria’s state-owned oil company manages the country’s vast petroleum resources, which are a significant driver of the nation’s economy.

7. Steinhoff International (South Africa) – $9.704 Billion

A multinational holding company, Steinhoff is involved in furniture retail and manufacturing, with operations in Europe, Africa, and Australasia.

8. Anglo American Platinum (South Africa) – $9.402 Billion

A subsidiary of Anglo American, this mining giant is the world’s largest producer of platinum and a major contributor to South Africa’s mining industry.

9. Sibanye Gold (South Africa) – $8.692 Billion

This gold mining company has expanded its reach beyond gold to include platinum and other minerals, making it one of the leading mining firms in Africa.

10. Spar Group (South Africa) – $8.479 Billion

Spar operates a widespread retail network across Africa, specializing in grocery and consumer goods.

11. Bidcorp (South Africa) – $8.227 Billion

Bidcorp is a major player in the agroindustry sector, focusing on food distribution and supply chain solutions globally.

12. Vodacom Group (South Africa) – $6.707 Billion

A subsidiary of Vodafone, Vodacom is a leading telecom provider in Africa, offering mobile and internet services to millions.

13. Pick n Pay Stores (South Africa) – $6.351 Billion

A major supermarket chain in South Africa, Pick n Pay has expanded its presence across Africa with a variety of retail formats.

14. Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (Nigeria) – $6.315 Billion

A key player in the energy sector, this company exports liquefied natural gas (LNG) worldwide, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economy.

15. OCP Group (Morocco) – $6.237 Billion

Morocco’s OCP Group is one of the world’s largest producers of phosphate fertilizers, playing a vital role in global agriculture.

16. Naspers (South Africa) – $5.934 Billion

A media and technology investment company, Naspers has stakes in major global tech firms, including Tencent.

17. Massmart (South Africa) – $5.920 Billion

A major retailer in Africa, Massmart operates brands like Game, Makro, and Builders Warehouse.

18. Suez Canal Authority (Egypt) – $5.600 Billion

This Egyptian state-owned enterprise manages the Suez Canal, a key global trade route generating billions in revenue.

19. Kumba Iron Ore (South Africa) – $5.466 Billion

A subsidiary of Anglo American, Kumba Iron Ore is a leading iron ore producer in Africa.

20. Sonangol Group (Angola) – $5.332 Billion

Angola’s national oil company is a major player in the oil and gas industry, managing the country’s petroleum resources.

21. Vodacom South Africa (South Africa) – $5.236 Billion

A regional subsidiary of Vodacom Group, it provides mobile and broadband services across South Africa.

22. Bidvest Group (South Africa) – $5.233 Billion

A diversified industrial and services conglomerate with interests in logistics, freight, and commercial services.

23. Motus (South Africa) – $5.009 Billion

Motus operates in the automotive sector, managing vehicle sales, distribution, and rental services.

24. Woolworths South Africa (South Africa) – $4.927 Billion

A premium retailer, Woolworths is known for its high-quality food, clothing, and home products.

25. Impala Platinum (South Africa) – $4.766 Billion

A major mining company, Impala Platinum is among the world’s largest producers of platinum group metals.

26. Sappi (South Africa) – $4.609 Billion

A global leader in the pulp and paper industry, Sappi has operations in several countries.

27. Transnet (South Africa) – $4.590 Billion

A key player in South Africa’s transportation sector, Transnet manages rail, port, and pipeline infrastructure.

28. Engen Petroleum (South Africa) – $4.555 Billion

A major petroleum company, Engen operates in refining, distribution, and retailing of fuel products.

29. AngloGold Ashanti (South Africa) – $4.427 Billion

One of the world’s largest gold mining companies, with operations across multiple continents.

30. Pepkor (South Africa) – $4.300 Billion

A retail giant specializing in affordable fashion, furniture, and household goods.

Conclusion

Africa’s wealthiest companies highlight the economic strength of key sectors like oil and gas, telecommunications, mining, and retail. While South African corporations dominate the list, major players from Nigeria, Algeria, Egypt, Angola, and Morocco demonstrate the continent’s diverse economic landscape. These companies will continue shaping Africa’s growth, innovation, and global influence in the years ahead.