**Bill Gates Commits to Giving Away 99% of Fortune by 2045**

**Bill Gates has announced his latest vow to donate the majority of his wealth through his foundation, aiming to support global health and alleviate poverty.**

Bill Gates, renowned Microsoft co-founder, has pledged to donate 99% of his wealth over the next two decades, a decision that underscores his commitment to philanthropy and societal responsibility. In a detailed blog post, Gates expressed his intentions to end the operations of his charitable foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, by 2045.

At 69, Gates aims to transform the way wealth is perceived in relation to social impact. “People will say a lot of things about me when I die, but I am determined that ‘he died rich’ will not be one of them,” he wrote. He highlighted that his foundation has already contributed $100 billion towards various health and development projects and anticipates allocating an additional $200 billion, influenced by market conditions and inflation over the next 20 years.

Gates referenced Andrew Carnegie's influential 1889 essay, "The Gospel of Wealth," which advocates for the wealthy to return their fortunes to society. Echoing Carnegie’s sentiment, Gates stated, “The man who dies thus rich dies disgraced.”

This announcement marks a significant shift from Gates' previous plans when he and ex-wife Melinda envisioned the foundation operating for years after their passing. Even after giving away 99% of his fortune, Gates could remain a billionaire, as he is currently valued at $108 billion, placing him as the fifth-richest individual globally.

Gates also emphasized his ambition to combat preventable diseases, infectious diseases, and poverty, asserting that the Gates Foundation will continue supporting efforts to aid those in need. Criticism, however, has emerged regarding his foundation's influence over the global health sector and allegations that it has become a shield for tax avoidance.

Additionally, Gates did not hold back in an interview, arguing against the decisions made by prominent figures in the tech industry, particularly targeting Elon Musk and his recent cuts to U.S. foreign aid budgets. He stressed the potential consequences of these cuts, specifically their impact on vulnerable populations, particularly children.

In conclusion, Gates' philanthropic ambition reflects a growing trend among wealthy individuals advocating for substantial societal contributions, showcasing a profound shift in the narrative surrounding wealth and responsibility. As he embarks on this new chapter of accelerated philanthropy, the world will closely monitor the outcomes of his generous efforts.