Isabel dos Santos

Isabel dos Santos

Isabel dos Santos (born 20 April 1973) is an Angolan businesswoman and the eldest daughter of former Angolan president José Eduardo dos Santos. She has been accused of corruption and money laundering. In 2020, she was named by Forbes as one of the richest women in Africa, with a net worth estimated at $2.3 billion. However, her assets have since been frozen by the Angolan government.

Early life and education

Isabel dos Santos was born in Baku, Azerbaijan, where her father was studying at the time. She grew up in Luanda, Angola. She attended the University of Westminster in London, where she studied electrical engineering.

Business career

Isabel dos Santos began her business career in the late 1990s. She founded several companies, including a telecommunications company, a cement company, and a bank. She also acquired stakes in several other companies, including Sonangol, Angola's state-owned oil company.

In 2016, Isabel dos Santos was appointed chairwoman of Sonangol. However, she was fired in 2017 following allegations of corruption. She has since been charged with several crimes, including embezzlement and money laundering.

Corruption and money laundering allegations

Isabel dos Santos has been accused of corruption and money laundering by the Angolan government. In 2020, the Angolan government froze her assets, accusing her of embezzling billions of dollars from state-owned companies. She has also been accused of using her father's influence to gain business advantages.

Isabel dos Santos has denied all the allegations against her. She has said that she is the victim of a political witch hunt.

Personal life

Isabel dos Santos is married to Sindika Dokolo, a Congolese businessman. They have four children together.

Isabel dos Santos is a controversial figure. She has been praised for her business acumen, but she has also been criticized for her alleged corruption. Her case is a reminder of the challenges facing Angola as it tries to transition to democracy.