JOHANNESBURG — A South African chain’s shareholders have overwhelmingly accepted Wal-Mart’s offer to buy 51 percent of their company, the chief executive said today, bringing the giant U.S.-based retailer to Africa for the first time.

Massmart CEO Grant Pattison said the proposal was approved by 95 percent of shareholders — 75 percent had been needed. Wal-Mart offered about $20 per share in the about $2 billion deal.

The deal will have to be approved by South Africa’s anti-competition commission.

Pattison said once the deal goes through, Massmart will continue to operate the stores and continue to be listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, while Wal-Mart will be the main owner. Massmart runs about 290 big box, pharmacy, electronics and other stores in 14 African countries.

“They are a great retailer and we really are looking forward to learning something from them, and teaching them something about Africa,” Pattison said.