A day after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) bestowed Bill Gates with the Special Order, Ethiopia’s highest honor, the American billionaire pledged to give away his wealth for philanthropic works in the coming two decades. During a speech at the African Union headquarters on the backdrop of a quarter century of philanthropic work, Microsoft’s co-founder announced his commitment through the Gates Foundation.
“My wealth will be given away over the next twenty years,” he said to an audience at the Mandela Hall in Ethiopia’s capital. “The majority of that funding will be spent on helping you address challenges here in Africa.”
Once the richest person in the world, the 69-year-old billionaire has an estimated net worth of around 110 billion dollars.
Bill opened his keynote speech by reflecting on his first visit to Africa in 1993, which inspired his philanthropic focus on global health. He cited the reduction of under-five mortality rates from nearly 10 million to under 5 million annually over the past 25 years, attributing these gains to partnerships with African governments and organizations.
The billionaire lauded Ethiopia for its health extension program, which expanded from 1,000 to over 15,000 health posts since 2005, contributing to a more than 50% decrease in child mortality rates.
“Your work has saved lives,” he said, referencing health extension workers.” I have great respect for the enormous work you do.”
No Comment Found.