Microsoft founder Bill Gates has been knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in a private ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
The honour bestowed on the American multi-billionaire is only honorary, because royal titles aren't formally recognised in the United States.
Gates was given the knighthood mainly to recognise his efforts to improve health and reduce poverty in the developing world. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Global Health program has earmarked nearly US$5 billion for the effort.
"I'm particularly pleased that this honour helps recognise the real heroes our foundation supports to improve health in poor countries," Gates said in a statement.
"Their incredible work is helping ensure that one day all people -- no matter where they are born -- will have the same opportunity for a healthy life, and I'm grateful to share this honour with them."
Gates was accompanied at the ceremony by his wife, Melinda Gates, co-director of the foundation.
Nominated for the knighthood by UK foreign secretary Jack Straw, Gates was also cited for his business leadership and contributions.
In 2000, the Gates Foundation donated US$210 million to Cambridge University to fund scholarships for students from outside Great Britain.
Microsoft employs some 2000 people and about 17,000 business partners in the UK, Microsoft said. Some 80 researchers work at a Microsoft Research laboratory at Cambridge.
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