Kenya’s health insurance landscape is undergoing a transformation, with major insurers shifting focus towards global medical coverage tailored for internationally mobile clients and affluent citizens seeking premium healthcare access across borders.
Jubilee Health Insurance and Old Mutual are spearheading this shift, each taking a distinct route. Jubilee is broadening its “Care & Health” International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI) plan, while Old Mutual General Insurance Kenya has partnered with AXA Global Healthcare and Executive Healthcare Solutions (EHS) to launch the Global Executive Health Plan (GEHP).
These new products highlight the surging demand for cross-border health insurance, a market niche projected to grow by over 10% annually, fuelled by medical tourism, higher disposable incomes, and the quest for top-tier treatment beyond Kenya’s local hospital ecosystem.
The trend also reflects how international insurers are adapting to new Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) rules that require global health policies to be underwritten by locally licensed companies.
“Our collaboration with AXA and EHS enhances Old Mutual’s mission to deliver trusted, accessible, and customer-centric healthcare solutions for a globally connected clientele,” said Japheth Ogalloh, Managing Director of Old Mutual General Insurance Kenya.
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Under the partnership effective from 1 October 2025, AXA contributes its global health expertise, Old Mutual serves as the local underwriter, and EHS handles exclusive distribution. The plan targets executives, SMEs, and individuals seeking seamless international healthcare coverage.
Jubilee, meanwhile, is banking on well-traveled families and expatriates with its Care & Health IPMI package, offering up to USD 4.5 million in worldwide coverage. The plan includes access to treatment in 185 countries, emergency evacuation, and repatriation, backed by Allianz as reinsurer and managed through the Henner Group, blending global scale with local service delivery.
“The product empowers clients to access top-quality care globally without worrying about restrictions or co-payments. It’s crafted for Kenyans and expatriates who value freedom and quality in healthcare,” Jubilee noted.
While both insurers target Kenya’s rising premium health market, their strategies differ. Jubilee is offering an international product under its own brand, whereas Old Mutual has opted for a collaborative model combining AXA’s international reach with local regulatory alignment.
Kenya’s private health insurance sector has expanded quickly over the past five years but continues to grapple with medical inflation and rising claims costs, particularly inpatient claims, which now make up nearly 40% of total payouts.
By venturing into the high-end market with globally benchmarked policies, insurers are positioning themselves to capture higher margins and counterbalance the pressures of mass-market losses. Still, long-term success will hinge on disciplined pricing, rigorous claims management, and better client awareness of policy terms and limitations.
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