Axa Global Healthcare has agreed a sole distribution process for all international private medical insurance (IPMI) sold through Africa with Executive Healthcare Solutions (EHS).
Health & Protection understands the move will require all advice firms conducting IPMI sales through Africa with Axa Global Healthcare to now do so through EHS. Axa Global Healthcare has been approached for comment on this.
The insurer has also agreed all its policies in Kenya will be underwritten locally by Old Mutual. The deal began for business incepted from 1 October.
The exclusive distribution agreement sees EHS act as the sole distributor of the newly developed global executive health plan (GEHP) – a product designed to deliver both global and regional cover, closely matching existing customer benefits, the insurer said.
In the launch statement Andy O’Cain, global head of distribution at Axa Health International, said: “Our goal is to become the leading player in East Africa’s IPMI market – and this dual collaboration gives us the perfect platform to achieve that.
“Following our successful partnership with Daman Insurance, the unrivalled market leader in domestic health insurance in the UAE – the world’s second largest international health insurance market – we continue building relationships with market leaders.
“EHS’s deep regional expertise and extensive network, combined with Axa’s global strength, mean we are uniquely placed to deliver for both existing and new customers.”
Aly Maherali, CEO at Executive Healthcare Solutions, added: “Our deep understanding of the African market means we know what clients truly need from their international health cover.
“By collaborating exclusively with Axa Global Healthcare, we’re able to offer solutions supported by a trusted global brand – giving our clients confidence and peace of mind as they navigate today’s complex healthcare landscape.
“It is through collaborations such as this, that we are able to fully realise our vision of reimagining global healthcare in Africa. Having operated in Sub-Saharan Africa for over 25 years, we understand the market, and we are committed to meeting the needs of all our clients through efficient and customer centric service.”
Karim Idilby, chief growth officer at Axa Health International, said: “Collaborating with Old Mutual represents a major milestone in our global growth strategy – and more importantly, in our long-term commitment to Africa.
“Old Mutual’s leadership position in Kenya and Africa makes them an ideal partner, particularly as we focus on the individuals and SMEs strategic growth segments.”
Japheth Ogalloh, managing director at Old Mutual General Insurance Kenya, said the firm was excited to collaborate with Axa Global Healthcare.