RIP: South African billionaire Douw Steyn passes away at 72
Billionaire insurance mogul and property developer Douw Steyn has died. Steyn, who had been in poor health for years, was 72 years old.
South African insurance magnate Douw Steyn has died.
He was 72.
Steyn was born in Brits in the North West province on 19 December 1952 and went to school in Johannesburg.
Steyn City
Douw Steyn was best-known for his Auto & General insurance business in SA, the BGL Group in the UK – the parent company of the well-known price comparison website Compare the Market, and for the creation of Steyn City, a residential and lifestyle estate in northern Johannesburg.
The Sunday Times Rich List for 2024 claimed that Steyn has a net worth of £3 billion (R69.94 billion).
He was the 58th wealthiest person residing in the UK according to the list.
He leaves behind sons, TJ and Louis, daughter Tanya, and widow Carolyn Steyn, a music radio presenter and founder of the nonprofit organisation 67 Blankets for Mandela.
‘Remarkable achievements’
The Democratic Alliance (DA) was quick to extend its condolences to the family and loved ones of Douw Steyn following his passing.
“Douw was a businessman whose remarkable achievements and legacy will leave a lasting impact on South Africa and the world.
“Douw Steyn’s entrepreneurial spirit, marked by his successful ventures such as the BGL Group and Steyn City, was truly extraordinary.
“He not only built a business empire across multiple countries, but he also showed a great commitment to South Africa, both in business and in his personal life.
“His generous contributions to the nation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, are a testament to his desire to give back and to make a positive difference.
“Beyond his business accomplishments, Douw Steyn’s dedication to his family and his country will be remembered with great respect.
“May his soul rest in peace.”