In a powerful speech delivered from the Nelson Mandela Room of the African Union headquarters, billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates announced a sweeping commitment to invest the majority of his $200 billion fortune into Africa over the next two decades.

The pledge marks one of the most ambitious private philanthropic investments in the continent’s development in modern history.

Gates addressed a diverse audience of state representatives, healthcare workers, diplomats, and civil society leaders, stating his personal wealth will be “completely dedicated to philanthropic endeavours within the next twenty years.”

Most of those funds, he confirmed, will be directed toward Africa. “I have recently committed to giving all my fortune in the next 20 years. The majority of these funds will be devoted to helping you meet the challenges here, in Africa,” he said.

The focus, he explained, will be on strengthening primary healthcare, expanding access to education, and improving maternal and child nutrition.

Gates emphasized the long-term impact of early childhood health interventions, saying, “What we have learnt is that helping a mother be healthy and well-nourished before and during pregnancy, and then ensuring that the child receives good nutrition in its first four years, makes all the difference.”

Artificial intelligence also featured in his address, particularly its rising role in African healthcare.

Gates pointed to Rwanda as a leading example, where AI tools are now enhancing pregnancy monitoring and maternal health outcomes.

He linked this innovation to the continent’s broader tech momentum, referencing the widespread uptake of mobile payment systems as proof of Africa’s digital readiness.

Gates noted that collaboration with African governments will be key in guiding the impact of these investments.

During his ongoing tour of the continent, he plans to engage directly with leaders in countries like Ethiopia and Nigeria to evaluate existing projects and deepen ties.

In Nigeria, meetings are expected with President Bola Tinubu, government officials, and researchers advancing digital health initiatives.

Gates will also attend the Goalkeepers Nigeria event, which spotlights innovations aimed at accelerating progress toward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Over the past two decades, the Gates Foundation has worked across numerous African countries, with regional offices in Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, Dakar, Nairobi, and Lagos.

The Foundation has built a network of partnerships with national governments, research institutions, and local organizations, all of which will play a role in this expanded commitment.

With this pledge, Gates is not just reaffirming his belief in Africa’s potential, he’s betting the bulk of his life’s fortune on it.