Issad Rebrab, founder and CEO of Cevital, is one of the most prominent figures in Algerian and African business. Born in 1944 into a modest family, Rebrab built a business empire from scratch. His story serves as a living example of how determination, long-term vision, and commitment to sustainable development can transform a nation and create a global impact.
Founded in 1998, Cevital is now the largest private conglomerate in Algeria, operating across sectors such as agribusiness, steel, electronics, home appliances, and transportation. With over 18,000 employees and approximately $4 billion in revenue in 2023, Cevital plays a crucial role in strengthening Algeria’s economy, contributing around 12% of the country’s industrial GDP. The company has operations in over 20 countries, with exports reaching markets in Europe, America, and Africa.
Under Rebrab’s visionary leadership, Cevital expanded its operations in the agribusiness sector, becoming one of the leading producers of sugar and cooking oils in North Africa. Cevital’s sugar production capacity now reaches 2 million tons per year, making Algeria self-sufficient in this sector and allowing for significant exports to international markets. This expansion reflects Rebrab’s commitment to adding value to the country’s natural resources and driving local production as an engine for growth.
One of the company’s recent milestones includes investments in sustainable technologies and industrial innovation. In 2022, Rebrab announced plans to build one of the largest water desalination plants in the Mediterranean, a project valued at $1 billion, aimed at addressing the region’s growing water needs while contributing to environmental security. Additionally, Cevital is investing in renewable energy projects as part of its effort to diversify and reduce carbon emissions, focusing on a greener, more sustainable economy.
Issad Rebrab is also a staunch advocate for job creation and human capital development. Through his leadership, Cevitalhas become a major source of employment, particularly in rural areas, and continues to invest in staff training and development. In the past five years alone, the company has created more than 10,000 new jobs, significantly contributing to reducing the unemployment rate, which stood at 9.8% in 2023.
Rebrab’s social contributions extend beyond business. He is well known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Cevital Foundation, which annually allocates millions of dollars to social development projects. The foundation supports education and healthcare initiatives, benefiting over 100,000 students through the construction of schools and universities. The foundation also provides medical assistance in remote areas across Algeria.
Issad Rebrab’s journey is an inspiring example not only for African entrepreneurs but for business leaders globally. His ability to overcome adversity, such as the devastating fire that destroyed one of his factories in the early 2000s, highlights his resilience and his knack for turning crises into opportunities. He rebuilt and expanded his operations, solidifying his place as one of Africa’s most influential business leaders.
At 80 years old, Rebrab remains actively involved in Cevital’s operations, steering the company toward new global horizons. His legacy goes beyond financial success—Forbes ranked him among Africa’s richest men, with an estimated fortune of $5.1 billion in 2024—but his true impact lies in the structural transformation he has brought to Algeria’s economy and his vision for a more prosperous, sustainable future for both Algeria and Africa.
Issad Rebrab’s story is, without doubt, a narrative of overcoming obstacles, achieving growth, and making a positive impact—a beacon for the potential growth and development that Algeria and Africa can attain with vision, innovation, and the courage to tackle challenges head-on.
