Bupa Global, a trailblazer in international private medical insurance (IPMI), has just launched its first-ever office on the African continent, marking a major milestone in its growth strategy. The new office in Nairobi follows the recent approval of an insurance license from the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) of Kenya.
As East Africa’s economic powerhouse, Kenya is poised to become a key player in Bupa Global’s expansion plans. With its growing economy and a booming healthcare market, Kenya is on track to nearly double its health insurance sector from $1.42 billion in 2022 to $2.77 billion in the coming years.
At the helm of this new office is Uditha Jayaratne, Bupa Global’s newly appointed CEO and Principal Officer. From day one, the Nairobi office will feature a local team committed to providing tailored services that meet the unique needs of Kenyan brokers, businesses, and individual customers.
“This is an exciting moment for us,” said Anthony Cabrelli, Managing Director of Bupa Global. “Kenya is a gateway to the incredible opportunities we see across Africa. With this new local presence and enhanced digital capabilities, we’re making world-class healthcare more accessible and affordable to people across the region.”
The launch aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030, which aims to provide accessible, quality healthcare for all its citizens. The recent introduction of the Social Health Insurance Act—which mandates health coverage for every Kenyan—has made the demand for health insurance more urgent than ever.
With a focus on innovation, the Nairobi office will roll out cutting-edge digital tools and a range of international health insurance plans for individuals, SMEs, expatriates, and corporate clients. Plus, customers will gain direct access to a global network of top-tier medical specialists and healthcare providers.
“This office is a statement of our commitment to success in Kenya and across the African continent,” said Jayaratne. “We’re building strong partnerships with local providers and intermediaries to deliver healthcare that truly meets the needs of the people.”
In line with its commitment to community wellbeing, the Bupa Foundation is also making a difference in Kenya by co-sponsoring initiatives like boreholes for clean drinking water and urgent care medical camps in the Masai Mara.
With this bold move into Nairobi, Bupa Global isn’t just expanding—it’s positioning itself as a key force in Africa’s healthcare revolution. This is just the beginning, and the future of healthcare in Africa looks brighter than ever.
