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. The Interview brings you conversations with people shaping our world, from all over the world. The best interviews from the BBC. You can listen on the BBC World Service, Mondays and Wednesdays at 0700 GMT. Or you can listen to The Interview as a podcast, out twice a week on BBC Sounds, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Presenter: Waihiga Mwaura Producer: Ben Cooper Editor: Nick Holland

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(Image: Bill Gates. Credit: Reuters)