Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, says he will spend nearly his entire fortune helping Africa. Speaking at the African Union in Addis Ababa, the 69-year-old announced he will give away 99% of his wealth—about $200 billion—by 2045.

Most of that money will improve health care and education. His foundation will target three goals: stopping deaths of mothers and babies, fighting infectious diseases, and helping families escape poverty. Gates says healthy mothers and good food for young children “make all the difference.” 

He urged Africa’s young inventors to build artificial-intelligence tools for clinics. Rwanda already uses an AI ultrasound system to spot risky pregnancies early, he noted. 

Former Mozambican first lady Graça Machel welcomed the pledge, calling it “vital support” during a global health crisis. Recent cuts in U.S. aid have raised fears about funding for HIV treatment across the continent, making Gates’ commitment even more important.


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