SanlamAllianz, a company providing insurance services and financial advisory, has started its operations in Rwanda.
This company originated from two entities, Sanlam and Allianz. Neither of these companies acquired the other; instead, they came together to combine their strengths, with their combined experience exceeding 200 years.
Sanlam is the African giant in insurance services, including both general insurance and life insurance.
On the other hand, Allianz is a company with experience in providing ‘Non-banking financial services’ (NBFs), including financial advisory, asset management, and others.
The partnership between Sanlam and Allianz was announced in May 2022, while Sanlam began its operations in Rwanda in 2014.
Robert Dommisse, the CEO of SanlamAllianz Life in South Africa and representative of the merged company, said that the Rwandan market offers financial opportunities, especially given the country’s growing economy and high future prospects.
He emphasized that they will continue to “seek solutions in the insurance sector to provide answers that will help Rwandans.”
Hassam Gaffar, the Director of Operations and Marketing at SanlamAllianz, said that they are prepared to continue contributing to the development of Rwanda.
He said, “We are proud to invest in Rwanda and are confident that the economy will continue to grow overall. We also wish to play a role in that development.”
Jean Chrysostome Hodari, the CEO of SanlamAllianz Life Insurance Rwanda Plc, stated that these changes will not disrupt customers. Instead, they will focus on enhancing their services, particularly in terms of technology.
He also mentioned that SanlamAllianz will increase its capabilities, citing their recent support for the construction of Amahoro Stadium as an example. He said, “As the company grows, it gains the ability to back larger projects.”
The company also announced that it is preparing projects aimed at individuals with limited financial resources, who often do not access insurance services.
Allianz is a company originating from Germany, which is why the stadium of Bayern Munich is named Allianz Arena due to their partnership.
For those familiar with the film Titanic, Allianz was the insurer of the ill-fated ship on its maiden voyage and covered all claims fully.
