Online Reporter
Mathew Masinge
AMERICAN hip hop superstar Rick Ross says if he invests in property in Africa, that investment will be done in Zimbabwe.
The rapper, whose net worth is estimated at US$150m, has a massive property portfolio, which includes residential and commercial investments.
Rick Ross has been in Zimbabwe since Friday at the invitation of his friend, Scott Sakupwanya, and he performed at the Hippodrome as part of the local businessman’s 47th birthday celebrations.
“If I’m buying real estate in the motherland, it’s definitely Zimbabwe,” said Rick Ross.
The rap superstar, who has been soaking in Harare’s vibrant atmosphere, appeared completely taken by the city’s mix of urban buzz and natural beauty.
Rick Ross, whose real name is William Leonard Roberts II, says he shares a similar rags-to-riches life story with his host Scott.
He grew up in a challenging environment in Carol City, Florida.
He was surrounded by poverty, drugs and violence during his youthful days.
“Me and my brother Scott, we hustle every day,” said Rick Ross before he unleashed his popular anthem Hustlin’, sending fans into a frenzy at the Hippodrome.
“I was once living in a small room without AC (air condition), now I’m flying private and shining in diamonds.
“Every day I’m hustling.”
He flew into Zimbabwe on a private jet.
The rapper attended a series of high-profile events, including Scottland’s new kit unveiling ceremony on Friday night and the Castle Challenge Cup match at Rufaro yesterday.
He even briefly performed at the kit unveiling ceremony.
Rick Ross’ massive property portfolio includes his flagship investment dubbed ‘The Promised Land’ an estate which sits on 235 acres in Georgia, United States.
It is worth about US5,8 million.
He also owns Star Island, a US$3,7 million mansion, Buckhead Estate, worth about US$34,2 million in Atlanta, South West Ranches and the Houston Property in Texas, worth US$3,5 million.
Rick Ross’s net worth of US$150 million represents a significant transformation for the rapper.
He is the founder of Maybach Music Group and owns the Wingstop restaurant franchises.
Scott grew up in poverty in Mabvuku before transforming himself into a millionaire businessman.
The assets under his Premiership football franchise, Scottland, which include a state-of-the-art village in Ruwa, are worth over US$60 million, according to club chairman Everson Chatambudza.
The American hip hop superstar delivered a special performance at his show on Saturday night.
He transformed the Hippodrome into a playground of wealth and hustle.
Standing shoulder-to-shoulder, Rick Ross and Scott embodied a cross-continental power link.
Nigerian Afrobeats singer Omah Lay, who delivered a fine performance packed with hits like I Am a Mess, Soso, Understand, and Holy Ghost, also performed at the show.
Local musicians Ex Q, Saintfloew, Tamy Moyo, Shashl, Feli Nandi, Takura and Freeman also rocked the stage.
But, the night belonged to Rick Ross who demonstrated real class once he went on the stage.
Mathew Masinge