Top UK Insurance Company Opens First African Office In Nairobi; What This Means

British United Provident Association Limited (Bupa) Global, a leading international private medical insurance (IPMI) provider, has officially launched its first office in Africa, marking a significant milestone in its expansion strategy.

According to a press release sent to Viral Tea, the Nairobi-based office follows the approval of an insurance license by Kenya’s Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), positioning Bupa Global to tap into the region’s rapidly growing health insurance market.

Kenya, East Africa’s largest economy, has been identified as a key growth hub for Bupa Global’s IPMI strategy. With sustained GDP growth and a national vision to attain middle-income status by 2030, Kenya’s health insurance sector is projected to nearly double in value, rising from Ksh183.5 billion ($1.42 billion) in 2022 to Ksh357.9 billion ($2.77 billion) in the same period.

Uditha Jayaratne, CEO & Principal Officer, Bupa Global Kenya, Nichola Thomson, General Manager UK & Africa and Anthony Cabrelli, Managing Director, Bupa Global at the launch of the new BUPA global offices in Riverside Drive. /HANDOUT

From the outset, the Nairobi office will be staffed by a local team and non-executive directors to ensure tailored solutions for brokers, customers, and the broader Kenyan market. The operation will be led by the newly appointed CEO and Principal Officer, Uditha Jayaratne.

Bupa Global’s expansion aligns with broader industry trends, with sub-Saharan Africa projected to be a leading IPMI growth region, forecasted at a 14-15% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) by 2025.

“Kenya is a crucial market for us and a gateway to the incredible opportunities we see across Africa,” said Anthony Cabrelli, Managing Director of Bupa Global. “With a local office and continued investments in digital capabilities, we’re building an ecosystem that makes world-class healthcare more accessible across the region.”

The move is also well-timed with Kenya’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes universal access to quality healthcare. The recent enactment of the Social Health Insurance Act, which mandates health coverage for all citizens, underscores the rising demand for comprehensive and accessible healthcare solutions.

What This Means for Kenyan Customers

Bupa Global’s Nairobi office will leverage innovative digital tools and offer a range of international health insurance plans tailored for SMEs, individuals, expatriates, and corporations. Customers will gain direct access to leading medical specialists and an extensive global network of top healthcare providers.

Furthermore, existing customers in Kenya will experience a seamless transition, with uninterrupted service from the new local office.

“Opening our Nairobi office is a testament to our commitment to success in the region,” said Uditha Jayaratne, CEO and Principal Officer of Bupa Global Kenya. “With a dedicated local team and strong partnerships with healthcare providers and intermediaries, we are well-positioned to deliver care that truly meets people’s needs.”

Digital-First Approach & Community Investment

In 2023, Bupa Global pledged nearly £55 million over five years to enhance its digital healthcare capabilities—an investment set to drive greater convenience, affordability, and access across Africa.

Beyond business expansion, Bupa Global is also investing in community wellbeing. The Bupa Foundation is co-sponsoring initiatives such as boreholes for clean drinking water and medical camps providing urgent care in the Masai Mara, reinforcing its commitment to improving healthcare access at the grassroots level.

With Nairobi now serving as Bupa Global’s launchpad into Africa, the company is poised to play a major role in reshaping the region’s healthcare landscape.

A photo of Bupa Global's offices. /BUPA