In a push to tap into Africa’s burgeoning private healthcare market, Bupa Global, an international private medical insurance (IPMI) provider, has officially launched its first African office in Nairobi, Kenya. 

The expansion comes after the company secured an insurance license from Kenya’s Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), ushering the firm into the untapped insurance market in Africa.

According to Bupa Global, Kenya, East Africa’s largest economy, has emerged as a focal point for Bupa Global’s ambitions. With sustained GDP growth and a government-driven push toward middle-income status by 2030, the country’s health insurance sector is poised for rapid expansion—projected to nearly double from KES183.5 billion ($1.42 billion) in 2022 to KES358 billion ($2.77 billion) in the coming years.

Bupa Global Nairobi office will be led by Uditha Jayaratne, CEO and Principal Officer and will operate with a fully localised team to ensure responsiveness to regional needs, the company announced.

“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 creating an ecosystem that makes world-class healthcare more accessible.”

Digital Innovation 

The firm said its expansion aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 blueprint, which prioritises universal healthcare access. The recent Social Health Insurance Act, mandating coverage for all citizens, further amplifies demand for private health solutions.

The Nairobi office will leverage cutting-edge digital tools to offer tailored insurance plans for SMEs, individuals, expatriates, and corporates, granting policyholders access to a global network of top-tier medical providers.

A broader African opportunity

The move also reflects wider trends in sub-Saharan Africa, where IPMI growth is forecast at a 14-15 percent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) by 2025. Bupa Global’s entry positions it to capitalise on rising demand for premium healthcare in emerging markets.

“Opening our Nairobi office shows how committed we are to success in the region,” said Jayaratne. “With a local team and strong partnerships, we can offer care that truly meets people’s needs.”

Investing in communities

Beyond insurance, Bupa is deepening its African footprint through social impact initiatives. The Bupa Foundation is funding boreholes for clean water and medical camps in the Masai Mara, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable healthcare access.

With KES7.7 billion (£55 million) pledged over five years to enhance digital healthcare infrastructure, Bupa Global is betting big on Africa for its next phase of growth.

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