Introduce yourself in a few lines.
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Insurance and Risk Management and later pursued a Master of Science in Finance and Investment from the Institute of Finance Management in Tanzania (IFM). In addition, I have also obtained my CII (Chartered Insurance Institute) certification.
Throughout my career, I have gained experience in both the insurance and banking sectors, working in different departments, including claims, underwriting, and business development.
My passion lies in becoming a professional expert in Mining insurance in Tanzania, where I can help bridge the knowledge gap in specialty risks underwriting. With my experience in insurance and risk management, I am dedicated to providing effective risk management solutions to the mining industry. This is because I believe that the mining industry plays a critical role in the economic growth and development of Tanzania.
Aside from my work, I enjoy participating in various development events and forums.
How did you join OLEA ?
I had the pleasure of meeting David Nolan, Managing Director of AIBT (OLEA Tanzania), a few years ago when he was seeking to establish AIBT in Tanzania in 2016. Later, while working as a Business Development, Head of Broker team at Strategis Insurance, I had further discussions with David about forming a mutually beneficial working relationship between Strategis and AIBT. After careful consideration, it was mutually agreed that my joining AIBT would be the most beneficial course of action for both parties involved.
Since I joined OLEA, I have had several enriching experiences like site visits to different mining projects, including Williamson Diamond Mine, located in Shinyanga and Lindi Jumbo, a graphite mine located in Lindi, Southern part of Tanzania, where I have witnessed their progression from the initial construction stage and gained an in-depth understanding of their operations.
What are the difficulties related to your job?
As an insurance broker in Tanzania, my job comes with its share of challenges. Recruiting new clients, especially in the mining sector, is a constant uphill battle. The insurance industry in Tanzania is highly competitive, and differentiating our services from competitors is crucial. Additionally, competition in the overall Tanzania market is fierce, with many brokerage companies vying for the same clients. Unethical practices from other brokerage companies are also a challenge we face. Upholding ethical standards and putting clients' best interests first is essential.
In addition to these challenges, underwriting can be a daunting task. Understanding the intricacies of specialty risks and crafting policies that offer adequate coverage at a fair price is essential. Failure of the market to provide terms in some risks, such as credit insurance risks, has been a persistent challenge in Tanzania. Finding solutions to these challenges requires creativity, persistence, and a deep understanding of the market and the risks involved.
To help us face these challenges, the annual office retreats provide us a platform for reflection on individual and company performance, setting targets, and devising ways to achieve them. This has contributed significantly to personal and organizational growth.
Can you reveal something about yourself that is not in your CV?
There's something about me that not many people know: my passion for the mining industry. Having been born and raised in the Lake Zone, an area where several big mining companies operate such as Geita Gold, Williamson Diamond Mine…I've always been curious about the sector. This is something that I am personally invested in.
In fact, my brother and I are part of the owners of SML Gold mine near Shanta Gold mine, in Singida. Being involved in this venture has given me an in-depth understanding of the sector and its potential for personal and overall country development.
Although I am currently focused on the insurance field, my ultimate goal is to become one of the major investors in this field.
So I am grateful for OLEA management's commitment to enhancing our professional competence as employees through paid short- and long-term courses, including CII, Oil & Gas courses etc. Such efforts demonstrate the company's dedication to providing opportunities for personal and professional development.
