- Among the affected vehicles are Toyota Probox, Succeed and Sienta among others.
- Most insurance companies are complaining about the increased misuse of vehicles, leading to unsustainable claims experiences.
Image: SHABAN OMAR
The Association of Insurance Brokers of Kenya has condemned the move by some insurance companies to discontinue offering comprehensive insurance to some vehicles.
AIBK chairperson Antony Mwangi said the move is uncalled for since it's a violation of human rights and unfriendly for business growth.
Among the affected vehicles are Toyota Probox, Succeed and Sienta among others.
Most insurance companies are complaining about the increased misuse of vehicles, leading to unsustainable claims experiences.
Probox vehicles, in particular, are being misused by rogue speeding drivers and criminals, according to insurance companies.
The models are also listed as accidents prone and frequently violations of the insurance covers by owners. For the past years, the probox vehicles have become famous in the transport sector.
Some of the owners are alleged to be taking private insurance covers but operate as public service vehicles.
Mwangi said it would be unfair for insurance companies to ban all the probox and other listed vehicles from their insurance covers for the mistake of a few unruly drivers and owners.
“Let's not punish everyone, the laws are there. The companies should deal with individual culprits,” he said.
He said so many people depend on Probox models for business activities that banning them would affect their lives.
“Our parents own these vehicles and in the rural, they are popularly known for transporting crop produce,” he said.
Mwangi called for government intervention in addressing the issue, adding it has the responsibility to protect the rights of every Kenyan.
He, however, said AIBK will engage the insurance companies to resolve the problem and reach a mutual agreement.
Mwangi spoke in an interview during the AIBK, 16th Regional Insurance Conference at Leisure Lodge in Kwale.
Over 200 delegates attended the conference whose theme was 'Innovate, Evolve and Thrive.'
The chairman said the meeting was conducted to help address the emerging calamities as far as climate change is concerned on its impact on the insurance industry.
Mwangi said there is a need for insurance brokers to look for various opportunities brought by the calamities for survival.
He said the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ukrainian-Russian war and the high cost of living had negative effects on the insurance sector
Mwangi said it is for these reasons that insurance brokers must effectively tap into the changing digital world for growth.
“Everyone is talking about technology and we have to take advantage of it for our success,” he said.
Mwangi called for unity among the insurance brokers for better service delivery.
He said the error of competition is over and for prosperity, collaboration is inevitable.
Mwangi cautioned consumers against fake insurance brokers and companies.
He advised people to liaise with the Insurance Regulatory Authority before taking insurance covers.
The officer said previously they were cases of some dishonest insurance brokers and companies.
Mwangi said clients should verify the companies and brokers through the IRA and the AIBK websites.
He, however, said with the help of the IRA there is sanity in the sector adding that the government should continue combing the industry to prevent imposters from destroying the insurance business.