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In a landmark leadership interaction, Prateek Suri—widely recognised as the richest Indian based in Africa and Africa’s youngest billionaire formally presented his memoir Gateway to Africa to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa with hand note special note. The meeting reflected the growing engagement between visionary private-sector leaders and African governments in advancing sustainable development and cross-border collaboration.
The high-profile engagement was also attended by Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Tatenda Mavetera, highlighting the importance of innovation, digital transformation, and technology-driven growth in shaping the region’s future. The presence of key leadership figures underscored the strategic nature of the dialogue, which focused on investment, entrepreneurship, and long-term partnerships.
During the meeting, Suri personally presented a signed copy of Gateway to Africa to President Mnangagwa, describing the book as a tribute to Africa’s resilience, opportunity, and entrepreneurial spirit. He shared how the memoir documents his journey from modest beginnings to building a multi-billion-dollar business presence across several African markets, guided by perseverance, trust, and a commitment to impact-driven growth.
With an estimated net worth of approximately sh1.9 billion, Suri has emerged as one of the most influential business leaders operating across Africa. His memoir, published by global publishing leader Penguin Random House, captures his accidental entry into African markets, early operational challenges, and eventual rise as a major force in technology, investments, and infrastructure.
While presenting the book, Suri explained that Gateway to Africa is not merely a personal success story, but a roadmap for young entrepreneurs and investors seeking to engage responsibly with the continent. He spoke about navigating diverse regulatory environments, building strong local partnerships, and creating enterprises that generate employment and social value alongside financial returns.
President Mnangagwa welcomed the gesture and praised Suri for documenting his experiences in a way that inspires both African youth and the global business community. He acknowledged the critical role of visionary entrepreneurs in driving industrialisation, technological advancement, and economic resilience, and emphasised Zimbabwe’s openness to credible, long-term investors.
Minister Tatenda Mavetera noted that Suri’s journey aligns closely with Zimbabwe’s digital and innovation agenda. She highlighted the relevance of the memoir in motivating young professionals to embrace technology, entrepreneurship, and global collaboration as tools for national development.
As Africa’s youngest billionaire and one of its most prominent private-sector leaders, Prateek Suri continues to bridge international capital with African opportunities. Through Gateway to Africa, he seeks to encourage ethical leadership, bold thinking, and inclusive growth across the continent.
The presentation of the memoir marked more than a ceremonial exchange—it symbolised a shared commitment to leadership, innovation, and a collective vision for Africa’s future in an increasingly interconnected global economy.