Who regulates insurance in Kenya?

The Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) is the statutory body that licenses and supervises all insurance companies, agencies and brokers in Kenya.

Is motor third-party insurance compulsory in Kenya?

Yes. Every vehicle on Kenyan roads must carry at least valid third-party motor insurance from a licensed insurer.

How many insurance companies are there in Kenya?

Kenya has more than 50 IRA-licensed insurance companies, supported by hundreds of insurance agencies and independent brokers across all 47 counties.

What is the difference between an insurance agency and a broker in Kenya?

An insurance agency is tied to one or a small number of insurers, while a broker independently compares cover from many insurers on your behalf.

Insurance in Kenya

Kenya has one of the most developed insurance markets in East Africa, with more than 50 licensed insurance companies and hundreds of agencies and brokers serving individuals and businesses in all 47 counties.

The Kenyan insurance industry

The Kenyan insurance industry is regulated by the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA). The industry consists of three main types of providers: insurance companies (underwriters), insurance agencies and independent brokers.

Personal insurance in Kenya

Personal insurance covers individuals and families. The most common products are motor, health, life, home and travel insurance. Motor third-party cover is a statutory requirement for all vehicles on Kenyan roads.

Business insurance in Kenya

Kenyan businesses must carry WIBA cover for employees, and typically take commercial, property, liability and professional indemnity policies. SMEs in agriculture, marine and engineering also rely on specialist cover.

Insurance across Kenyan counties

While headquarters are concentrated in Nairobi, insurers maintain branches and tied agencies in counties like Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Uasin Gishu. Use our county directory to find an insurer near you.

How to buy insurance in Kenya

Identify the cover you need - health, motor, life or business.
Compare quotes from at least three insurers or work with an independent broker.
Read the policy exclusions, excess and claim process before signing.
Pay your premium in full or via approved installments.
Keep your policy documents safe - you'll need them when claiming.

Frequently asked questions

Who regulates insurance in Kenya?: The Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) is the statutory body that licenses and supervises all insurance companies, agencies and brokers in Kenya.
Is motor third-party insurance compulsory in Kenya?: Yes. Every vehicle on Kenyan roads must carry at least valid third-party motor insurance from a licensed insurer.
How many insurance companies are there in Kenya?: Kenya has more than 50 IRA-licensed insurance companies, supported by hundreds of insurance agencies and independent brokers across all 47 counties.
What is the difference between an insurance agency and a broker in Kenya?: An insurance agency is tied to one or a small number of insurers, while a broker independently compares cover from many insurers on your behalf.