Mo Dewji’s role in driving socioeconomic change in Tanzania

His rise to prominence has not only earned him a spot among the world’s top 100 richest people but also fuelled his mission to foster positive change in Tanzania.

According to the 2025 Forbes list, Nigerian Aliko Dangote tops the list for the 14th year in a row, with an estimated net worth of $23.9 billion, from $13.9 billion a year ago.

South African luxury goods magnate Johann Rupert claimes second place with $14 billion, marking a significant 39 percent increase. Fellow South African Nicky Oppenheimer and his family occupy third place with $10.4 billion. Other notable billionaires on the list include Egyptian Nassef Sawiris ($9.6 billion), Nigerian Mike Adenuga ($6.8 billion) and Tanzanian Mohammed Dewji ($2.2 billion).

“South Africa leads this year’s list with the highest number of billionaires, followed by Nigeria and Egypt. Tanzania stands proudly with Dewji’s inclusion,” reads part of the Forbes report.

While Mr Dewji’s wealth continues to grow, his true impact is felt through his work with Mohammed Enterprises Tanzania Limited (MeTL). As CEO of MeTL, one of Tanzania’s largest conglomerates, Mr Dewji has made it his goal to provide sustainable job opportunities and uplift Tanzanian citizens.

Founded by his father in the 1970s, METL has become a significant player in the Tanzanian economy. Mr Dewji’s recent focus has been the revitalisation of neglected agricultural sectors, particularly in sisal farming, which has provided thousands of Tanzanians with work and new economic opportunities. His venture into the beverage industry with Mo Cola has disrupted the market, offering employment in small-scale businesses while competing with global beverage giants.

“METL’s vision has allowed us to become Tanzania’s second-largest employer, after the government, with a workforce of 40,000 across 126 businesses. Our goal is to employ 100,000 people,” Mr Dewji told The Citizen in a recent interview.

In addition to his business endeavours, Mr Dewji has made significant strides in improving access to basic services, particularly clean water. Through his charitable arm, the Mohammed Dewji Foundation (MDF), he has partnered with the Ministry of Water to drill wells across Tanzania, benefiting over 11,350 people in rural communities.

In 2023, the foundation rehabilitated 18 wells and treated four others, ensuring continued access to safe water. Mr Dewji’s long-term goal includes rehabilitating 50 more wells and drilling 50 new ones to benefit an additional 15,000 Tanzanians.

As a former Member of Parliament for Singida (2005-2015), Mr Dewji is no stranger to the challenges of ensuring water access. During his tenure, the percentage of residents with access to clean water in the region rose from 27-28 percent to 86-88 percent.

MDF has also played a pivotal role in health interventions, providing cataract surgeries, eye screenings, glasses, and other treatments to thousands of Tanzanians, restoring their sight and independence. In 2024, the foundation funded surgeries and post-operative care for children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, offering life-changing treatments.

“These interventions are game-changers,” Mr Dewji said. “We’re saving lives that might otherwise be lost or severely impaired. My mission is to show that targeted, well-funded efforts can transform entire communities.”

In 2016, Mr Dewji joined The Giving Pledge, committing to donate at least half of his wealth to charity during his lifetime. His philanthropic spirit, rooted in his Islamic faith and family values, drives him to support those less fortunate.

“My parents instilled in me the importance of giving, and I feel a deep responsibility to help others,” Mr Dewji said. “It’s not just about wealth; it’s about leaving a legacy of change.”

In addition to his business and charitable work, Mr Dewji has made an indelible mark on Tanzanian football. As the chairman of Simba Sports Club, Tanzania’s premier football team, Mr Dewji has propelled the club into Africa’s top ranks, investing in infrastructure, player development, and international partnerships. Under his leadership, Simba SC has climbed from being ranked over 100th to one of Africa’s top seven teams.

“Beyond football, I aim to use the club as a platform for youth empowerment and community engagement,” Mr Dewji said. “I want to inspire a new generation of Tanzanian athletes.”

Although Mr Dewji is a staunch Arsenal supporter, he is considering investing in a European football club to foster connections between East African and English clubs.

Mr Dewji’s commitment to supporting young Tanzanians extends beyond football. He’s exploring the possibility of investing in boxing, recognising the sport’s growing popularity in the country and its potential to help youth stay out of poverty.