He had several health complications.
News Colombia.
The Colombian businessman Aníbal Roa Villamilco -founder of the renowned Rico Roa brand, died at 90 at the University Hospital of Neiva. His death occurred after facing health complications that kept him hospitalized in recent days. The news has generated shock in the business and agricultural sector of the country, where Roa Villamil is remembered as a pioneer of national agribusiness.
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The governor of Huila highlighted the importance of Roa for the transformation of the rice sector in Colombia: «The name of #huila exalted. With his leadership, he built a family business symbol of progress, generating thousands of jobs and contributing to regional development. His legacy of discipline, work and commitment will last in each Huilense family. We join in solidarity with their loved ones and collaborators in this moment of pain. Peace in his grave ».
With deep regret we regret the death of Aníbal Roa Villamil, president and co -founder of Molinos Roa SA, a visionary who transformed the rice sector into #Colombia and exalted the name of #Huila. With his leadership, he built a family business symbol of progress, … pic.twitter.com/9mxfj8wlei
– Rodrigo Villalba Mosquera (@rovillalba) April 19, 2025
Born in Viotá, Cundinamarca, Aníbal Roa and his brothers Rafael Vicente and Ramón Hernando began their business career in the coffee industry. However, in 1959 they moved to Neiva, Huila, where they identified the potential of rice cultivation in the region. In 1968 they founded Molinos Roa Ltda., Giving rise to the Rice Roa brand, which eventually consolidated itself as one of the most recognized in Colombia.
Under the leadership of Aníbal Roa, the company evolved from a family operation to a conglomerate with presence throughout the country. In an interview, Roa expressed his pride for having started with a small project that came to use more than 1,800 people, highlighting the significant participation of women in the workforce. 
Beyond his business success, Roa Villamil was recognized for his social commitment. Together with his wife, Clara Solano, he founded the organization “Friends as Rice”, dedicated to support vulnerable communities through educational and entrepreneurship programs. The Foundation has benefited thousands of young people and mothers head of household in regions such as Huila, Tolima, Casanare and Meta.
In 2018, during the celebration of the 50 years of Rice Roa, Aníbal Roa was honored by the Andi induarroz chamber, recognizing his contribution to the development of the rice sector in Colombia. His legacy lasts not only in the brand that takes his last name, but also on the positive impact he had on the communities and in the agricultural industry of the country.
The departure of Aníbal Roa Villamil represents a significant loss for Colombia. His business vision, combined with a deep sense of social responsibility, makes him an example to follow for future generations of entrepreneurs. His life and work leave an indelible mark on the history of the country.
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