Bill Gates: The importance of aid and philanthropy

Waihiga Mwaura, presenter of the BBC’s Focus on Africa programme,
speaks to Microsoft co-founder and global philanthropist, Bill
Gates.


Mr. Gates, who is 69 years old, announced last month that he
plans to give away 99% of his vast fortune over the next 20
years, predominately through his Gates Foundation. The foundation
has already given over 100 billion dollars since being
established 25 years ago.


He built his vast personal wealth through the software giant
Microsoft, which he co-founded back in 1975. Mr. Gates has
gradually stepped back from the company in recent decades, first
resigning as its chief executive in 2000 and then later as its
chairman in 2014.


This has allowed him to turn his attention to global
philanthropy, with a particular focus on health initiatives in
lower-income countries.


But Mr. Gates fears this work could be at risk as wealthier
countries cut back on their own international aid commitments.
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Presenter: Waihiga Mwaura Producer: Ben Cooper Editor: Nick
Holland


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(Image: Bill Gates. Credit: Reuters)