Somalis are among a remarkable number of affluent individuals who have made significant contributions to both the local and global economy.
From pioneering entrepreneurs to influential business magnates, these individuals have navigated challenges and leveraged opportunities in various sectors, including telecommunications, remittances, and agriculture.
In this article, WoA delves into the achievements of these wealthy figures, exploring how their success stories not only reflect personal triumphs but also embody the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Somali people.
1. Abdirashid Duale – CEO of Dahabshiil
Abdirashid Duale, born in 1977 in Burao, Somaliland, is the CEO of Dahabshiil, a leading international money transfer company founded by his father in 1970.
Under Duale’s leadership, Dahabshiil has expanded globally, employing over 10,000 people across 126 countries and providing essential financial services to humanitarian organizations like the UN and Oxfam.
Duale emphasizes corporate social responsibility, investing 5% of profits into community development projects.
2. Ismail Ahmed – Founder of WorldRemit
Ismail Ahmed, a Somali-British entrepreneur, is the founder and chairman of WorldRemit, a digital money transfer service launched in 2010.
Born in Hargeisa, Somaliland, he fled to the UK during the Somali Civil War, later earning a PhD in economics and an MBA from London Business School.
His experience with high remittance costs inspired him to create a mobile-based solution for sending money, making financial services accessible to unbanked populations.
Under his leadership, WorldRemit became a leading fintech company, valued at $5 billion by 2021.
3. Amina Moge Hersey – Business tycoon
Amina Moge Hersey is a prominent Kenyan business tycoon and entrepreneur, recognized for her significant contributions to various sectors, particularly in real estate and hospitality.
She is the founder of the Hersi Group, which encompasses diverse businesses, including hotels and construction.
Hersey is celebrated for her innovative approaches and commitment to corporate social responsibility, enhancing community welfare through her ventures.
Additionally, she has been instrumental in promoting women’s empowerment in business across Africa.
4. Abdirazak Ido – Telecommunications entrepreneur
Abdirizak Ido is a prominent Somali telecommunications entrepreneur, best known as the founder and controlling shareholder of NationLink Telecom, established in 1997.
Under his leadership, NationLink has become one of Somalia’s largest telecommunications providers, offering mobile, internet, and fixed-line services to over 700,000 subscribers.
Based primarily in Dubai, Ido has played a crucial role in enhancing communication infrastructure in Somalia, aiming to improve living standards across the nation.
5. Mohammed Abshir Abdi – Seafood trader
Mohamed Abshir Abdi is a prominent seafood trader and the founder of Hafun Fishing Company, established in 1992 in Bosaso, Puntland, Somalia.
Under his leadership, the company exports various seafood products, including lobsters and frozen fish, primarily to markets in Yemen and the UAE.
Abdi’s entrepreneurial ventures extend beyond fishing, as he also engages in real estate development in Puntland.
6. Iman Abdulmajid – Supermodel and entrepreneur
Iman Abdulmajid, born on July 25, 1955, in Mogadishu, Somalia, is a renowned Somali-American supermodel and entrepreneur.
She gained fame in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming a pioneer for black models in the fashion industry.
In 1994, Iman launched Iman Cosmetics, focusing on beauty products for women of color, inspired by her own experiences with makeup that did not cater to her skin tone.
Beyond cosmetics, she has expanded her brand to include fashion accessories and home decor, achieving significant success and recognition in the beauty industry.
7. Ahmed Jibril – Owner of 748 Air Services
Ahmed Jibril is the owner and chairman of 748 Air Services, a charter airline established in 1995, primarily operating from Wilson Airport in Nairobi, Kenya.
The airline focuses on passenger and cargo transport, initially serving humanitarian organizations in East and Central Africa.
It operates a fleet of 13 aircraft, including Bombardier Dash 8 models.
Jibril is also involved in philanthropic efforts through the Mama Ibado Charity, supporting vulnerable communities in Kenya.
8. Yusuf Abdi Adan – Miraa transport business
Yusuf Abdi Adan is a prominent figure in the miraa transport business, having started in the 1960s and dominating the Meru-Chuka trade routes by the 1980s.
He is also a co-founder of Bluebird Aviation, Kenya’s second-largest airline, which provides various charter services including humanitarian flights.
Adan’s involvement with Bluebird has been contentious; he has faced legal challenges against his co-directors, alleging fraud and financial misconduct, which were ultimately dismissed by the courts due to lack of evidence.
His legal battles have raised questions about his management role and contributions to the airline’s success.
9. Aden Duale – Politician and businessman
Aden Duale, born in 1965 in Garissa, Kenya, is a prominent politician and businessman.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Moi University and an MBA from Jomo Kenyatta University.
Duale has served as the Member of Parliament for Garissa Township since 2013 and was the first Leader of the Majority Party in Kenya’s National Assembly.
He has been involved in various businesses, including co-founding the Livestock Marketing Society of Kenya and holding leadership roles in retail and wholesale sectors.
Duale currently serves as the Cabinet Secretary for Environment.
10. Mohammed Abdikadir – Founder Bluebird Aviation
Mohammed Abdikadir is a prominent Kenyan lawyer and entrepreneur, known as the founder of Bluebird Aviation, which specializes in air transport services.
He is also a senior partner at Abdikadir & Abdikadir Advocates, a law firm focusing on corporate and commercial law, among other areas.
Abdikadir has extensive experience in legal advisory roles, having served as a Senior Legal Advisor to the President of Kenya.
His ventures reflect a commitment to innovation in both aviation and legal services within the region.
