Stellenbosch, South Africa – Zimbabwean billionaire and telecommunications pioneer Strive Masiyiwa has been awarded an honorary Doctorate in Engineering by Stellenbosch University, recognising his transformative contributions to Africa’s telecoms sector and philanthropic endeavours.
Masiyiwa received the prestigious accolade on December 10, 2024.
A trailblazer in mobile telecommunications, his visionary leadership has propelled Africa’s digital infrastructure over the past four decades while uplifting communities across the continent through his philanthropy.
“Mr. Masiyiwa is an exemplary African leader who has not only achieved remarkable success but is now using his influence to improve lives,” said Professor Wikus van Niekerk, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering.
Born in Zimbabwe in 1961, Masiyiwa studied Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Cardiff, graduating in 1983. His career began as a telecoms engineer in Zimbabwe before launching his first business in 1986. Today, he chairs Cassava Technologies, a pan-African and global technology group driving digital connectivity and innovation.
With ventures spanning Africa, Europe, and beyond, Cassava Technologies has laid over 110,000 kilometres of fibre, bridging the digital divide across the continent.
Its portfolio includes African Data Centres, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, and Cassava AI.
Masiyiwa’s philanthropic initiatives, spearheaded by the Higherlife Foundation and Delta Philanthropies, have provided over 300,000 scholarships, supported public health efforts, and empowered women, youth, and rural communities.
His humanitarian contributions have extended to tackling AIDS, cholera, and Ebola.
Internationally celebrated, Masiyiwa has earned accolades from Forbes, Bloomberg, and Fortune, and in 2024, received the W.E.B. Du Bois Medal from Harvard University.
He has also served on numerous boards and advisory councils, including Netflix, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Stanford University.
Masiyiwa’s Stellenbosch University doctorate adds to a collection of honorary degrees from globally renowned institutions, reflecting his commitment to fostering innovation, connectivity, and social progress.-Sun