Johannesburg – When a health crisis makes the news, the first instinct is either to cancel everything or to carry on as normal. Neither serve you very well.  Instead, start with five questions, asked before departure, not after something goes wrong.

1.Will my travel insurance actually cover this trip?

As Herman Heunes, GM of Corporate Traveller South Africa, explains, travel advisories can impact your trip cover.

“If you travel to a destination against official government ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings, insurers typically void your coverage for trip cancellations and medical emergencies related to the advisory,” says Hunes.

The timing matters too. Many insurers look at when the advisory was issued relative to when you bought your policy. If a severe advisory is issued before you booked your trip or purchased insurance, coverage is usually nullified.

“The advisory level at the time of departure determines a lot,” says Heunes. “Travellers who fly to a destination under an active advisory without checking their policy first can find themselves personally liable for medical, evacuation and repatriation costs that run into the hundreds of thousands.”

It’s an easy fix. Call your insurer or ask your travel management company (TMC) to confirm your specific cover before you book. Not after. And while you’re at it, also confirm whether your destination has any health entry requirements – including vaccinations or screening on arrival – and how your organisation will cover those costs.

2.Does my company actually know where I am?

A travel request form is not a tracking system. In a fast-moving health crisis, the difference between a company that knows you’re in a specific hotel in a specific city on a specific day and one that has you logged as “travelling in the DRC” is significant – and that gap can mean the difference between a swift evacuation and a delayed one.

Larger travel programmes have risk platforms that do this automatically. Many small to medium programmes don’t. If yours falls into the second category, ask your TMC what visibility they have (centralised booking systems and up-to-date traveller profiles make a big difference) – and what needs to happen before you fly.

Importantly, says Heunes, ask your team to register your trip with DIRCO. South Africa’s official travel registration system ensures the government knows you’re in a country if a coordinated evacuation needs to take place. It takes five minutes and costs nothing.

3.What is the health picture in the city I’m visiting?

Country-level warnings are a starting point, not the full story. An outbreak in a border province carries a different risk to one in a capital city with functioning health infrastructure, and a blanket advisory can make a safe trip look dangerous – and vice versa.

Your TMC should be able to provide destination-specific intelligence in addition to the government advisory. That’s where a global network makes a tangible difference.

“Partnering with a TMC that has a global footprint means you can access current, on-the-ground information and local support whenever you need it,” says Heunes. “Networks are a powerful advantage when it comes to duty of care.”

4.If the situation escalates and borders close mid-trip, what is the protocol?

Not “we’ll handle it” – the specific protocol. Who initiates the evacuation process in your organisation? Does your travel agent or TMC have a 24/7 emergency support line? Do you even have the number to call?

“The companies that manage crises well have done the thinking before the crisis, not during it,” says Heunes. “For smaller travel programmes, this is where a good TMC earns its keep – having those protocols already in place, already tested, so the traveller isn’t piecing it together from a hotel room.”

If your programme doesn’t have a documented escalation process, ask your TMC to walk you through what would actually happen, step by step. The answer will tell you a lot.

5.Can I leave early if I feel unsafe … and who covers the cost?

Fare flexibility is rarely top of mind when booking, but it becomes critical fast when a situation deteriorates. Many corporate fares, particularly at the economy end where SME travel budgets live, carry change fees or restrictions that make early departure expensive.

It’s also worth clarifying upfront who has the authority to make the call – whether the decision to abort a trip rests with you, your line manager, or someone further up the chain. In a crisis that moves fast, that ambiguity costs time.

Before you fly, confirm whether your ticket allows for early return, whether your company will cover the cost difference, and whether your insurance includes trip curtailment. If the answer to all three is yes, you can travel with genuine confidence. If not, at least you know what you’re walking into.

“Business travel is how small and medium businesses compete,” says Heunes. “It’s how you close deals, build relationships and show up in markets where presence still matters. The goal is never to stop travelling; it’s to travel in a way that’s informed, protected and sustainable. Ask the right questions before you fly, and you can do exactly that.”

-ENDS–

MEDIA CONTACT

For more information about Corporate Traveller, or to interview Corporate Traveller South Africa GM Herman Heunes, call Sonnette Fourie on 081 072 2869 or email sonnette@bigambitions.co.za.    

About Corporate Traveller

Corporate Traveller is a division of the Flight Centre Travel Group, dedicated to saving businesses across Southern Africa time and money. Corporate Traveller has the benefit of being part of the world’s third-largest travel retailer, leveraging its global negotiating strength. It has access to over 50 of the world’s leading airlines and deals with more than 100 000 hotels around the world to guarantee savings for clients. Corporate Traveller provides clear, consolidated reporting of all its clients’ travel activities, helping them to control travel spend and identify opportunities to save costs.

Issued by:

Big Ambitions

Sonnette Fourie

sonnette@bigambitions.co.za

+27 81 072 2869

“What’s unfolding in the Middle East is an extreme example, but it’s a powerful reminder that disruption doesn’t announce itself,” says Zay Ferguson-Nair, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa. “The travellers who navigated this best were the ones who were prepared and who had someone in their corner.”

For South Africans planning future travel, here is what that preparation actually looks like… and what to do if the worst happens anyway.

What to do if you’re stranded mid-route

This is the scenario that caught many travellers off guard in early March. Grounded while connecting in Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, with a cancelled onward flight and a queue stretching the length of the terminal.

Your first move depends on where you are in your journey

Your travel agent is your first call if your trip has not yet commenced. They can begin working on alternative options immediately, rebooking flights, adjusting accommodation, and managing the moving parts of your itinerary before you’ve even left home. In the 24 to 48 hours before travel, keep a close eye on communications from your airline via SMS or email, and contact your agent proactively if you have any concerns.

If your journey has already begun (meaning you’re mid-trip and disruption strikes) approach the airline directly first. They’re best placed to accommodate you in the moment, whether that means rebooking your onward flight or arranging immediate assistance at the airport. Once you’ve made contact with the airline, notify your travel agent. They’ll monitor your trip from there and step in to manage everything beyond the flight itself (like hotels, transfers, tours, cruises, and car hire) and can arrange extensions to your travel insurance if necessary.

If you booked directly with the airline and have no travel agent, call the airline’s emergency or rebooking line immediately. Do not wait for staff to come to you.

What Flight Centre’s Travel Experts suggest you keep in mind

Based on what Flight Centre’s Travel Experts see most often, here are a few practical things worth bearing in mind:

• Your rights vary significantly depending on your route, your airline, and the passenger protection laws of the country you’re flying from or into. There is no single universal standard, which is why having someone in your corner who understands the landscape is so valuable.
• If your flight is cancelled and you choose not to travel, most major airlines will offer a refund of the unused portion of your ticket, but always confirm this directly with your airline or your travel agent before making any decisions.
• If you choose to continue your journey, rebooking on the next available flight is usually possible. The scope of that rebooking (whether it extends to partner airlines, what timeline applies, and what costs are covered) varies by airline and circumstance.
• In cases of extended delays, it’s always worth asking the airline about meals, accommodation, and communication access. On certain routes (particularly those subject to EU or UK passenger protection rules), carriers may be required to provide these. Whether this applies to your situation depends on your specific route and airline.
• When in doubt, ask your Travel Expert. This is exactly the kind of complexity they navigate every day. Did you know that 66% of South African travel intenders say they value a travel agent specifically for their expertise and knowledge, and 62% for the peace of mind they provide when things change or go wrong?

An important note on travel insurance

Travel insurance is one of the most valuable tools in any traveller’s kit, and one of the most misunderstood. We encourage every traveller to read their policy documents carefully before departure, not while they’re stranded. Understand what’s covered, what’s excluded, and what the claims process looks like. If anything is unclear, contact your insurer directly for clarification before you travel.

The most important thing to remember is this: no two policies are the same. Coverage varies significantly between providers and products, which is why understanding your specific policy, rather than assuming what it does or doesn’t cover, is essential. Your Travel Expert can help point you in the right direction.

What to do if you’re stranded at your destination

This is in many ways the more disorienting scenario. You’ve arrived and settled, and then the situation around you deteriorates. Airspace closes and your departure flight is cancelled. The advice from your government changes overnight.

Step one: Register.

South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) operates the Travel Smart system, which allows South African citizens travelling abroad to register their details and receive official updates. If you’re not registered and a crisis unfolds, DIRCO has no way of knowing you’re there. Registration is free and takes minutes. Do it before every international trip.

Step two: Identify your nearest South African embassy or consulate.

Save the contact details on your phone before you travel, knowing that in an active crisis, embassy websites can become overloaded and difficult to access.

Step three: Follow official channels, not social media.

Misinformation spreads faster than facts in a fast-moving situation. Rely on your travel agent, DIRCO updates, your country’s official travel advisory, and your airline’s direct communications.

Step four: Contact your travel agent.

Again, this is where professional support earns its value. A good agent is monitoring your booking in conjunction with the situation. They can advise on alternative routing and help you make decisions based on current, accurate information.

“The travellers we worry about least are the ones who’ve covered the basics. They’ve booked with a professional, read through their insurance policy, and know who to call. In a disruption, those seemingly small details are everything,” explains Ferguson-Nair.

The world remains open, and most of it remains entirely safe to explore. But the events of the past few weeks have made one thing undeniable: travel without preparation is a gamble, and a journey without support is a lonely one.

In short, Saffas are some of the world’s most open-minded travellers when it comes to preparing for potential holiday hiccups. And with airport strikes, wild weather, lost luggage, and surprise illnesses all on the rise, it turns out we might just be onto something.

So, what does travel insurance really cover, why are so many South Africans making it non-negotiable for every trip, and how can Flight Centre help you dodge costly curveballs? Read on for a no-nonsense guide to getting the cover you need.

Why we’re the travel insurance champions

Many South Africans treat travel insurance as a holiday essential – right up there with sunblock and a power bank. According to Flight Centre’s Global PR survey, nine in ten local travellers would consider taking out a policy, most often for medical emergencies or lost luggage. Gen Xers are especially savvy (more likely than younger generations to get covered for medical mishaps), while Baby Boomers lead the pack in making insurance non-negotiable.

Maybe it’s our collective “just-in-case” mentality or the fact that many of us have skipped new shoes or dinner out to fund our holidays (because interestingly, nearly half of South Africans have actively cut down on their spending to be able to afford their trips). Whatever drives us, Saffas know that real adventure still means planning for the unexpected – and trusting an expert who can spot risks you may never see coming.

What travel insurance actually covers (and why it matters)

Travel insurance is your holiday safety net. It steps in when things get messy, so you don’t have to drain your savings or call Mom for financial help from a foreign hospital.

“The real value is peace-of-mind,” says Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing and Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa. “You can relax knowing that if life throws a curveball, your plans won’t unravel as a result.”

Here’s what most travel insurance policies cover:

• Medical emergencies: From sudden illness in Bali to a sprained ankle in Spain, you’re covered for hospital stays, treatment and even air ambulance evacuation if needed.
• Trip cancellations (or trips cut short): If illness, injury, or family emergencies force you to cancel or come home early, you’ll usually be reimbursed for non-refundable bookings.
• Lost, stolen, or delayed luggage: When your suitcase takes the scenic route without you, insurance covers essentials until it’s reunited or replaced.
• Flight delays: Missed connections due to weather or strikes? Most policies pay for meals and accommodation after a set delay (usually 6–12 hours).
• Personal liability: If an accidental oopsie ruins someone else’s day (or suitcase), legal expenses are handled.
• Emergency assistance services: 24/7 helplines for everything from lost passports to urgent medical advice.

What isn’t covered – don’t get caught out!

Travel insurance isn’t a magic wand. There are limits, and ignoring the fine print could leave you footing a hefty bill.

• Known events: If a strike or disaster is public knowledge before you buy your policy, don’t expect your claim to fly.
• Strikes and industrial action: Many policies exclude these disruptions unless you’ve added extra cover – always double-check.
• Heatwaves and discomfort: Too hot to sightsee? Claims won’t be paid out unless extreme weather escalates into an actual disaster (like wildfires closing hotels).
• Change of heart: Deciding not to travel due to nerves or unrest isn’t covered.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: Unless declared upfront and specifically included, these are often excluded.
• Mental health and alcohol/drug-related incidents: Claims from psychiatric conditions or mishaps after one too many cocktails usually aren’t covered.

“Read every line of your policy – even the boring bits. We’ve seen travellers get caught out by exclusions they didn’t know existed. Rather ask us before you go than regret it when it’s too late,” Garrett advises.

The real costs of going without cover

A medical emergency abroad can be financially devastating. Private hospitals in countries like the US can charge up to $10,000 (nearly R180K) a day for intensive care. Medical evacuation? That could set you back more than $150,000 (more than R2.5 million). Even something as minor as emergency dental work or a lost passport quickly adds up.

Without insurance, you’re on the hook for every cent. And while some medical schemes offer limited cover overseas, they often come with strict conditions and high deductibles. Garrett explains:

“We’ve seen travellers forced to max out credit cards or borrow from family after an accident abroad, all because they thought ‘it won’t happen to me.’ The real question is not ‘Can I afford to take out travel insurance on top of the cost of my holiday?’, it’s ‘Can I afford not to have cover if it’s needed?’’.”

How to get the most from your travel insurance

• Buy early: The sooner you purchase your policy after booking, the more events (like sudden illness or family emergencies) are covered.
• Read every word: Yes, it’s tedious; but knowing your exclusions could save you thousands.
• Double-check add-ons: If you’re going somewhere known for strikes or unpredictable weather, ask about optional extras – don’t assume standard cover is enough.
• Keep every slip: Receipts, police reports, emails from airline – claims demand proof.

And if in doubt?

“Ask your travel expert,” says Sue Garrett. “They’ve seen it all, and they know which questions to ask so that you’re covered for what matters most to you.”

With South Africans leading the world in travel insurance savvy, it’s clear we know that peace of mind is truly priceless.

According to Flight Centre’s latest global survey (which polled thousands of travellers across South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, the UK, Canada, and the US), there’s overwhelming consensus that nothing kills a holiday vibe quite like being grounded before take-off.

But that’s only the beginning of the boarding gate blues. From vanishing bags to overly chatty seatmates and the dreaded no-Wi-Fi zone, Mzansi flyers have spoken. Loudly.

Here are the five biggest in-flight irritations South Africans love to hate – and, more importantly, the clever tricks Flight Centre’s General Manager, Antoinette Turner, recommends to beat each one.

1. Flight delays & cancellations (49%)

Nearly half of South African travellers ranked delays and cancellations as their number one travel gripe. Sadly, from weather-related chaos to staff shortages and runway backlogs, delays are more common than ever.

So, how do you beat them?

• Build in buffer time: Leave wiggle room if you’ve booked connecting flights (especially in less reliable hubs). That seemingly dreamy 55-minute layover is a serious gamble.
• Download your airline’s app: Airlines often update their own apps before relaying info to gate staff or email alerts. It’s the fastest way to receive push notifications on rebooking options or gate changes.
• Get smart about travel insurance: “Many South African travel insurance policies cover delays that exceed 4–6 hours,” explains Turner. “Depending on the provider, you could claim for meals, accommodation, and other expenses, but only if you can prove the delay. Keep every receipt, screenshot your boarding pass, and make that claim within the window your policy allows.”

2. Lost luggage (47%)

Second only to delays, lost luggage is another big flying frustration for South African travellers – but with the global luggage mishandling rate at approximately 6.3 bags per 1,000 passengers, the chances of it happening to you are very low (but never zero).

So, how do you beat it?

• Pack smart – cabin is king: Always keep your essentials (meds, chargers, toiletries, a change of clothes, and any valuables) in your hand luggage.
• Track it, don’t hope it: Invest in a Bluetooth luggage tracker (like an AirTag or Tile) and pop it inside your checked bag. That way, even if the airline’s lost your bag physically, you haven’t lost it digitally. Also look into Blueribbon bags, a service that helps you quickly recover lost luggage or guarantees a minimum $1,000 payment per bag if the luggage isn’t returned within four days.
• Your phone is a witness: Snap a quick photo of your bag before check-in and keep images of the contents and receipts for any valuables. If you need to submit a baggage claim, insurers and airlines will want proof. The better your documentation, the stronger your case.

“Most South African insurers offer cover for lost, stolen, delayed or damaged luggage, but conditions vary,” says Turner.

Important things to remember:

• Claims usually have time limits – e.g., report within 21 days for delayed luggage, and even sooner (often 24–72 hours) for theft or damage.
  • You’ll likely need a formal Property Irregularity Report (PIR) from the airline.
  • Valuables (phones, laptops, jewellery) are often only covered if they’re in your cabin bag.

3. Disruptive passengers (47%)

Disruptive passengers, whether they’re overly emotional, tipsy, loud, or just wildly unaware of common decency, are enough to send your blood pressure to the same altitude as the plane.

So, how do you beat this problem?

• Bring noise-cancelling headphones: They’re the single best investment in modern travel, period.
• Be strategic with your seat selection: If you’re hoping for quiet, skip the bulkhead – that’s where bassinets (and restless little ones) tend to go. A seat toward the back is often noisier, while rows just in front of the wings tend to be quieter and more stable.
• Speak up – politely and early: If someone is noticeably drunk, aggressive, or making your flight painful, discreetly alert a flight attendant sooner rather than later.

4. The dreaded middle seat (27%)

Ah, the middle seat. It’s the spot no one chooses… but someone always ends up in.

So, how do you beat it?

• Book early. Choose wisely. Pay if you must: Gone are the days of playing airplane roulette at check-in. If you want control, claim it in advance. Some airlines charge for seat selection, but ask yourself: is R500* worth avoiding 11 hours squashed between two sleepy elbow sprawlers? Yes. Yes, it is.
• Travelling in a pair? Use the sneaky aisle-window trick: Book the aisle and window seats in a set of three. Most solo travellers won’t pick the middle, and if they do, you can always offer a swap and sit next to your mate anyway.

“Strategic seat selection is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your flight experience, without actually flying business class. At Flight Centre, we always help customers check what their airline offers and when seat selection opens,” comments Turner.

5. No Wi-Fi on board (27%)

You’ve planned the perfect binge session: downloaded the first two episodes, ready to stream the rest mid-air. You’ve got emails to smash and braggy Instagram posts to queue. Then it hits you: no Wi-Fi. Or worse… Wi-Fi that connects but doesn’t actually work.

So, how do you beat it?

• Download everything: Don’t rely on onboard Wi-Fi to keep you entertained or productive. Before you fly:
  • Netflix: download your series.
  • Spotify: offline playlists.
  • Google Docs: use “Offline Mode” for working in the cloud without the cloud.
  • Gmail & Outlook: turn on offline inboxing if you’ll be emailing between time zones.
• Rediscover the beauty of Things That Don’t Need Charging: Remember books? Magazines? Crossword puzzles? They still exist, and you’ve probably forgotten how much fun they can be.
• Reframe the moment: No Wi-Fi = the rare gift of being unreachable. Use that luxurious isolation to nap, journal, brainstorm your next trip, or plan your entire European itinerary via pen and recycled boarding pass.

“Not every bump in the journey can be avoided,” says Turner, “but being informed and prepared means you respond better – stress less, adapt faster, and enjoy the trip a whole lot more.”

Here’s to smoother skies, smarter flying… and fewer elbow wars at 10,600 meters.

*Seat selection pricing varies between airlines

Table of Contents

Women make up at least half (and by some counts, nearly 70%) of South Africa’s travel and tourism industry, so it’s no exaggeration to say they’re the ones influencing the way we explore.

Ask almost any woman what she wishes for on Women’s Day, and the answer is surprisingly simple: the freedom to go, to learn, to experience, and to return with new stories.

This Women’s Day, hear from the industry’s trailblazers – women who have ventured along less-trodden paths (often solo), opened doors, and quietly supported thousands of journeys. Their advice, learned on the road, in the skies, and at the helm, extends well beyond luggage or logistics. It’s about how to travel with confidence, courage, and joy, knowing you’re backed by a sisterhood who’s been there before you.

AFRICA EXPERTS

1.Pack curiosity… and a Capulana
Natalie Tenzer-Silva, Director & Founder, Dana Tours
“My must-pack for Mozambique? A capulana – a traditional cloth every Mozambican woman carries. It’s a beach wrap, sunshade, picnic blanket, cover-up, and even a way to carry a baby. Pack one, and show your openness to blending in. Most of all, come with curiosity. Mozambique works on its own rhythm, and when you lean in, you’ll find joy and connection in the unexpected moments.”

2.Skip the safari classics – Africa always gives you more
Amanda Margison & Jacqui Reynolds, Founders, On Show Solutions / Africa Showcase
“As women leading an international tourism platform, we’ve seen how African travel resonates deeply with women seeking meaning, connection and joy. Our best advice? Follow your curiosity. Africa always gives you more than you expect – especially when you venture beyond the obvious.”

3.Book with recognised operators and ask the tough questions
Kgomotso Ramothea, CEO, ATTA®
“Don’t limit yourself to a single experience. Blend city culture with wildlife, or a beach escape with a cruise. Also, always book through recognised, accredited providers and don’t hesitate to ask about safety protocols; any quality operator will be happy to explain how they’ve got your back.”

HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONALS

4.Master your hotel safety checklist
Lee-Anne Singer, FEDHASA Cape Chairperson
“My personal checklist: 24/7 accessible reception or support, a room close to the lift but never on the ground floor, strong access control for guest-only areas, and a quick, friendly pre-arrival response, which almost always predicts the kind of care I get in person.”

5.Forget thread count. Real luxury is choice
Anka Zeeman, Co-Founder & Co-Owner, Morukuru Family
“For me, true luxury is less about thread count and more about the freedom to shape your days as you wish – whether you’re up for a sunrise safari or lingering over coffee on your terrace, the real indulgence is choice.”

6.Choose walkable accommodations
Thuthukile Moloto, General Manager, Pullman Cape Town
“Many destinations – including Cape Town – are designed for discovery on foot, from artisan coffee stands to open-air art. Pick accommodations with walking access to local markets and attractions. It radically enhances your sense of freedom and immersion throughout your stay.”

7.Be adventurous, even in familiar destinations
Jessica Redinger, General Manager, Hyde Johannesburg
“My tip for those travelling to Johannesburg for the first time is to be adventurous! There’s a whole city of history, art, food, and music waiting. The Red Bus stop is just 120m away from Hyde Johannesburg for easy city touring or tap into our network of local guides for tailored, confidence-boosting explorations.”

TRAVEL EXPERTS

8.Join the 50% who’ve cracked the timing code
Sue Garrett, GM Pricing, Supply & Marketing, Flight Centre South Africa
“Travel off-peak (nearly 50% of South Africans do!). When visiting Saffa favourites like Mauritius and Bali, going just outside the typical holiday season means fewer crowds, better rates, and more authentic connections with locals.”

9.Stopovers aren’t delays – they’re mini-adventures!
Antoinette Turner, GM, Flight Centre South Africa
“With the Rand’s ups and downs, look for destinations or stopovers that let you stretch your currency further. For instance, some premium airlines offer free city tours or stopovers you can convert into mini-adventures for almost nothing extra.”

10.Know when to use AI – and when to call a pro
Chantal Gouws, General Manager, Envoyage
“Use AI to brainstorm ideas or do your travel research but trust a travel professional when things get tricky or when you need nuanced, experience-based advice. Know when to ‘AI’ and when to ‘human’ – humans are your safety net for the details and context no algorithm can fully grasp.”

11.Don’t underestimate the power of a quick escape
Natalia Rosa, CEO, Big Ambitions
“Travel doesn’t have to mean big, complicated getaways. Sometimes the best self-care is a last-minute two- or three-day escape close to home. For women with busy lives, exploring what’s within a two-hour drive can be just the break you need and far less stressful (and more affordable) than planning a long-haul trip.”

12.Turn business travel into discovery opportunities
Mummy Mafojane, General Manager, FCM South Africa
“Turn business travel into an opportunity for discovery by arriving a day early. Spend your Sunday exploring, so you’re fresh for Monday’s meetings and get a taste of the city, too. I also always pick overnight flights for work trips – you maximise your days at both ends.”

INSURANCE SPECIALISTS

13.Never skimp on insurance
Natasha Parry, General Manager, SATIB
“Many South African DMCs now embed bespoke insurance (like SATIBGo) right into your package. The smart things to do is ask if you are specifically covered for high-risk activities like horseback safaris, quad biking, or boat trips. Some policies quietly exclude these, which can mean denied claims when you need them most.”

14.Remember; you’re already tougher than you think
Tracy Lee Feakes, Head of Insurance Division, Everything.Insure
“South African women are naturally tough and adaptable – managing daily realities like load shedding, infrastructure hiccups, and safety concerns at home means you’re more empowered for African travel than you realise. Never underestimate your own resilience; be adventurous and trust that you’re capable of handling far more than you think.”

AIRLINE PROFESSIONALS

15.Chat with your flight crew for insider tips
Barbara Namwila, Sales and Marketing Manager, Proflight Zambia
“Don’t be shy to chat with the crew on your flight, especially on quieter flights. They’re a wonderful source of local tips and are there to make sure you feel welcome and comfortable throughout your journey.”

The women leading Africa’s travel industry understand the joys of jet-setting (and road-tripping… and cruising) better than most: every border crossed, every comfort zone pushed, every new connection made is its own celebration of possibility.

So, the next time you plan a trip, whether far afield or simply to a new neighbourhood, remember you travel in the company of those who know the value of experience, preparedness, and support. As these women show, wherever you go, there’s wisdom waiting to guide you… and open arms ready to welcome you home.

JOHANNESBURG – Following the successful launch of its postgraduate Scholarship Programme in 2023, Africa Risk Capacity (ARC) Ltd. is collaborating with consulting and technology firm Milliman Inc. again to give African students another chance to participate in the programme. Applications will open on 1 December 2024 and close on 31 March 2025.

ARC Ltd. CEO Lesley Ndlovu, who developed the programme in conjunction with Milliman Principal and Consulting Actuary Joy Schwartzman, understands the potential impact it can have. “I was a beneficiary of a scholarship which was the foundation of my career. Working with Milliman to set up our own scholarship programme is my way of contributing to expanding access to opportunities for the next generation,” he notes.

“The Africa Scholarship Programme aims to empower the next generation of leaders who are driving solutions to the continent’s climate threats. It will assist students who can’t afford postgraduate studies and encourage female students to apply, with the goal of promoting gender equality in the industry,” says Milliman Chief Sustainability and DEI Officer Christal Morris.

Last year, five scholarships were awarded to candidates from Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Tanzania and Togo.

Ange-Emmanuelle Gblaka from Côte d’Ivoire, Sandrine Dorvale Bassong Bayegle from Cameroon, and Kossi Mose Doumassi from Togo began their studies at the Institut de Formation en Alternance pour les Générations Engagées (IFAGE) in Dakar, Senegal in January. Doreen Mulwa from Kenya and Maulid Seleman from Tanzania will embark on their academic journeys at the University of Cape Town in 2025.

Next year, two new scholarships will be offered to qualifying applicants. These scholarships are specifically for students who have gained admission to advanced programmes in Actuarial Science, Risk Management and Insurance, or Agricultural Statistics. It covers full tuition, housing, living stipends, and other essential expenses for up to two years of full-time study at selected universities in Africa, including:

• École Nationale Supérieure de Statistique et d’Économie Appliquée, ENSEA, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire;
• The Institut Interafricain de Formation en Assurance et en Gestion des Entreprises, IFAGE in Dakar, Sénégal;
• University of Cape Town in South Africa

The programme aligns with ARC Ltd.’s important work in Africa, where it has been offering disaster risk insurance to member states since 2014, and also supports Milliman’s social responsibility goals. Milliman, which uses its actuarial expertise and modelling frameworks to help reduce risk in vulnerable countries, will provide the funding, while ARC Ltd. will implement the programme on the ground, leveraging its relationships with African member states to make it a reality.

Graduates will also get the opportunity to pursue their dream climate careers. “We desire to see these graduates succeed, and therefore ARC Ltd. and Milliman will also be providing internships to give them a strong foundation in their chosen careers and an immersion in the challenges of risk management,” Ndlovu concludes.

Details of the scholarship can be found in the brochure and the application forms are available on https://africanscholarship.org/.

**  Ends  **

For more information about ARC Limited, or to interview Lesley Ndlovu, contact Sonnette Fourie on +27 81 072 2869 or sonnette@bigambitions.co.za. 

For more information about Milliman, contact Jeremy Engdahl-Johnson on +1 646 473 3021 or jeremy.engdahl-johnson@milliman.com. To learn more about Milliman’s commitment to social impact, go to https://www.milliman.com/-/media/social-impact/Milliman-Impact-Report.ashx.

About ARC Limited 

The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd) is a financial affiliate of the African Risk Capacity (ARC), a specialised agency of the African Union (AU), an initiative designed to improve current responses to climate-related food security emergencies. 

ARC Ltd is a mutual insurance facility comprised of its members, which have included Kenya, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Mali, Malawi, Gambia, Burkina Faso, Chad, Zimbabwe, Togo, Madagascar, and Zambia.

The membership also includes its capital contributors who have provided premium subsidies, including USAID, FCDO SWISS, KFW/BMZ, IFAD, AFDB, WFP and STARTNETWORK.

About Milliman

Milliman leverages deep expertise, actuarial rigor, and advanced technology to develop solutions for a world at risk. We help clients in the public and private sectors navigate urgent, complex challenges—from extreme weather and market volatility to financial insecurity and rising health costs—so they can meet their business, financial, and social objectives. Our solutions encompass insurance, financial services, healthcare, life sciences, and employee benefits. Founded in 1947, Milliman is an independent firm with offices in major cities around the globe. Visit us at milliman.com.

To help address this gap, Norway, through the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) has provided NOK 50 million (about $4.5 million) to African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) to implement the Supporting Adaptation Capacity Through Increased Parametric Insurance Penetration in Africa (SACPIP-Africa) initiative. The partnership was made official during a signing ceremony in the CARICOM Pavillion at COP29 on 13 November 2024, marking the significant contribution this initiative will have in addressing climate change issues.

By aligning with global frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), the initiative aims to create synergies with existing environmental policies and resilience strategies.

What is SACPIP-Africa?

SACPIP-Africa is part of ARC Ltd.’s mission to expand disaster risk preparedness by strengthening governments’ ability to forecast, assess, and plan for crises. It was designed to equip African nations with the tools, knowledge, and financial support necessary to address the growing impact of climate change.

The initiative leverages parametric insurance to address Africa’s unique vulnerability to climate-related disasters. Unlike traditional insurance, parametric insurance provides pre-agreed payouts based on objective triggers, such as rainfall levels, rather than assessed losses. This ensures rapid disbursement of funds (often within 10 days) allowing countries to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.

“The SACPIP-Africa initiative reflects a deep commitment to building a resilient and self-reliant Africa. By leveraging innovative tools like parametric insurance and developing local expertise, this program will protect livelihoods and ensure sustainable development in the face of climate challenges,” ARC Ltd. CEO Lesley Ndlovu says.

ARC Ltd. implements SACPIP-Africa with the highest standards of transparency and accountability. The program includes robust monitoring, evaluation, and learning mechanisms, as well as regular reporting to stakeholders. Semi-annual performance reviews and annual evaluations will measure progress against key indicators, ensuring that donor contributions deliver maximum impact.

Strengthening economic resilience at scale

SACPIP-Africa will be implemented over the next four years in Cameroon, Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Sudan, and Zambia.

By training government officials, civil society organisations, and local leaders through capacity-building workshops, SACPIP-Africa ensures that disaster risk management knowledge is embedded at the grassroots level. These efforts will focus on building institutional frameworks, establishing risk profiles, and creating contingency plans to ensure effective response mechanisms, which will result in additional coverage of $134 million and an additional 13.4 million vulnerable Africans covered over the next 3 years.

Gender inclusion is an important aspect of this contingency and operational planning and the ARC Group works with partner countries to strengthen women’s participation in disaster risk management. “We do this by actively leveraging our influence to encourage more women to be included in the working groups,” said Ndlovu. ARC also provides training to relevant government departments and country liaisons in gender inclusion and sensitivity.

“Climate change is having a devastating impact on communities in Africa, as we have witnessed this year with the drought affecting several countries in Sub-Saharan Africa,” commented the Norwegian Minister of International Development, Anne Beathe Tvinnereim. “We are excited to be partnering with ARC Ltd. Their work allows more countries in Africa and small-holder farmers to be insured against risks related to drought, flooding, or tropical cyclones.”

She said: “This project will also help countries assess the severity of risks and make sure that those most vulnerable in communities, including women and children, have their livelihoods protected.”

With an emphasis on scalability, SACPIP-Africa builds on ARC Ltd.’s ambitious vision to provide insurance coverage to over 150 million vulnerable Africans annually by 2025, scaling its current footprint of 17 insured countries to a majority of African Union member states. This is projected to deliver an economic multiplier effect, safeguarding agricultural productivity, stabilising local markets, and reducing post-disaster recovery costs.

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For more information about The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd), or to arrange an interview, please contact Sonnette at sonnette@bigambitions.co.za.

This publication has been produced with financial support from Norway. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of ARC Ltd. and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the Government of Norway.

About ARC Ltd.

The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) is a financial affiliate of the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group, a specialised agency of the African Union (AU), an initiative designed to improve current responses to climate-related food security emergencies.

ARC Ltd. is a mutual insurance facility comprised of its members, which have included Kenya, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Mali, Malawi, the Gambia, Burkina Faso, Chad, Zimbabwe, Togo, Madagascar, and Zambia.

The membership also includes its capital contributors who have provided premium subsidies, including USAID, FCDO, SDC, KFW/BMZ, IFAD, AFDB, WFP and STARTNETWORK.

But what about the business trips you’ve managed this year—or the ones you’ll be taking when January rolls around? How prepared are you for the unexpected?

Karen Botha, Sales Manager at Travel Insurance Consultants (TIC), sees the gaps all too often. “The biggest mistake we see is travellers relying on free or complimentary cover thinking it’s comprehensive cover,” she explains.

When credit card coverage falls short

Business travel is rarely straightforward. When something goes wrong, the stakes are often much higher than on holiday. A missed flight isn’t just an inconvenience – it’s a deal at risk. Imagine arriving for your presentation, but your luggage doesn’t. That carefully selected outfit for tomorrow’s meeting? Still circling somewhere between airports. While credit card coverage might offer some protection, it often falls short of what business travellers really need. A comprehensive travel insurance policy’s luggage delay benefit can cover immediate essentials – from a replacement suit to basic toiletries – ensuring you can maintain a professional appearance even when your bags go AWOL.

Your health shouldn’t be a gamble

Something we’d rather not think about: getting seriously ill abroad. Work travel can take you anywhere – from gleaming urban hubs to high-risk, remote locations. Even if you’re someone who takes every precaution, health emergencies happen.

Botha recalls a critical case: “A business traveller contracted cerebral malaria in Sierra Leone. The medical facilities were not equipped to deal with the severity of his condition. Fortunately, his travel insurance policy made provision for medical transportation, and he was immediately airlifted to a suitable medical facility in a neighbouring country.”

Think about that for a moment. Without proper insurance, you’re not just facing staggering medical bills – you’re gambling with your life. Even less dramatic situations, like needing emergency medical care or a prescription in a foreign country, can quickly spiral into expensive ordeals.

And if you have a pre-existing condition? Don’t assume you’re automatically covered. “If you know you have a condition, make sure it’s included in your cover,” Botha advises. “Without it, even minor flare-ups can turn into a major problem.”

When airlines shrug their shoulders

Flight delays are practically a given these days. Yes, airlines will help with the basics – a meal voucher here, maybe a hotel room there. But what about those domino-effect disasters? The missed connections, the emergency rebookings, the cascade of disrupted plans?

That’s where proper travel insurance steps in. “Travel insurance can cover the cost of an onward flight if you miss your connection due to the late arrival of your inbound flight,” says Botha. Just remember, you need at least a three-hour buffer between flights to qualify.

Your laptop is worth more than you think

When you’re travelling for work, your bag is more than just a suitcase – it’s your mobile office. Your laptop, trade samples, or specialist tools aren’t just packed for convenience; they’re essential to getting the job done. But here’s the catch: they’re not always as insured as you think. “Most travel policies have a single item limit for expensive gear,” says Botha. So, if your laptop is worth R30,000 but the policy caps at R5,000 you’ll be footing the rest of the bill.”

Trade samples? Covered under most travel policies. Tools in use? That might be another story. Botha suggests double-checking your insurance to ensure all your work essentials are protected. And if something goes wrong – your laptop is stolen or damaged – you’ll need to act quickly. “Report any loss to local authorities immediately. You’ll need a detailed report to process your claim,” she advises.

When one size doesn’t fit all

Not all policies are built for every type of traveller. If your work takes you beyond the usual office setup – whether to a construction site, a remote field project, or anywhere involving physical labour – you need more than standard coverage.

This is where a good travel management company (TMC) becomes your safety net. “Some business travellers assume their insurance covers everything, but it doesn’t always match the actual nature of their work,” says Mummy Mafojane, Productive Operations Manager at FCM. “Our role is to make sure the right policies are in place – whether you’re headed to a boardroom or a hands-on project site.”

“Having the right insurance is about having peace of mind, knowing that when you work and travel, everything’s been thought through,” says Mafojane. “With the right advice and coverage, you can focus on what really matters: doing your job.”

“We don’t just book your flights and hotels,” Mafojane adds. “We ensure you’re protected every step of the way. From selecting the right insurance coverage to providing 24/7 support, we focus on making business travel as seamless and safe as possible.”

**ends**

For more information about FCM Travel, or to interview FCM Travel General Manager South Africa, Bonnie Smith, call Lori Cohen on 079 641 4965 or email lori@bigambitions.co.za.

About FCM Travel:

FCM Travel, the flagship corporate travel brand at Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), is the business travel partner of choice for large national, multinational and global corporations. We are an award-winning global corporate travel management company ranking as one of the top five by size around the world. We operate a global network which spans more than 100 countries, employing over 6000 people.

FCM are transforming the business of travel through our empowered and accountable people who deliver 24/7 service and are available either online or offline. Leveraging FCM’s negotiating strength and supplier relationships in conjunction with our tailored business travel programs, our expertise delivers more for our clients where it matters most to them.

Visit us at www.fcmtravel.co.za

Issued by: Big Ambitions

Contact: Lori Cohen

Tel: +27 79 641 4965

Email: Lori@bigambitions.co.za

These conditions, compounded by the El Niño phenomenon, constitute the largest humanitarian emergency that Malawi has ever confronted, with 6.5 million people in need of humanitarian aid. The country also hosts more than 52,678 persons of concern (PoC) and refugees, primarily from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda and Mozambique, the majority of whom are dependent on humanitarian assistance to meet their daily food needs.

“Refugees and displaced people often live in temporary shelters or camps, which are particularly vulnerable to climate events. Many of these areas also face resource scarcity, and the added stress of climate change can lead to severe shortages, resulting in increasing tension and conflict within refugee communities,” says the UNHCR’s Mojisola Terry.

A key component of African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group’s response in Malawi has been its partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) through the Replica Programme, which allows humanitarian organisations to replicate government-level climate risk management policies, thereby extending insurance coverage to refugee populations and internally displaced persons who are typically left out of national insurance schemes.

Through the Replica programme, the UNHCR took out a policy on behalf of the refugees in the country that allowed them to receive a $400,000 payout. This includes Dzaleka, a refugee camp in the Dowa district of Malawi (about 40km away from the capital, Lilongwe), which receives a monthly average of 300 new arrivals (62% are from the DRC, 19% from Burundi, 7% from Rwanda, and 2% from other nationalities) – 45% of the PoCs are women and 48% are children. The camp was initially established to host between 10,000 to 12,000 PoCs but now hosts over 52,000 individuals. Of the total PoC population, 21,530 have refugee status, 30,910 are asylum seekers, with 238 others are of concern.

Residents like Ndayisenga Goodance (42) say they are grateful for the timely disbursement of funds. “The money will help us with inputs for maize, and I am going to save to have enough for inputs from the subsequent payments,” she says.

Nsabimana Janine (40) explains how the funds have allowed her to purchase fertiliser for her rented 0.8-hectare plot, where she grows maize and beans.

Jean Rwasa (29), who grows tomatoes on 0.4 hectares of land, plans to use the money to buy 20 kg of fertiliser, which sells at MK2,500 per kg.

These individual stories highlight the tangible impact of the anticipatory insurance model, which aims to provide emergency relief and empower individuals and communities to rebuild their livelihoods.

Payout process: Ensuring access and transparency

Centenary Bank was contracted to oversee the payout process, which included:

1. Beneficiaries being informed of the day they needed to come to the bank to collect their funds.
2. Once at the bank, they had to produce their refugee ID to be verified.

3. The beneficiaries then received a voucher to collect their cash.

4. Three booths were dedicated to this.

This structured process ensured that the funds reached those most in need without delays or mismanagement.

The long-term impact of climate change on Malawi 

Malawi, which occupies the southern part of the East African Rift Valley, is particularly prone to adverse climate disasters. Droughts and floods, the most severe of these hazards, have increased in frequency, intensity, and magnitude over the past twenty years, with dire consequences on food and water security, water quality, energy resources, and the livelihoods of the most rural communities.

These climate impacts date back to the late 1940s. In 1991/92, 6.1 million people were affected by droughts, and according to the World Bank, from 1979 to 2008, 21.7 million were adversely affected by natural disasters, with 2,596 livelihoods lost.

In 2015, Malawi was hit by a once-in-500-year flood, which impacted more than 1.1 million people. This was followed by a devastating drought that left over 6.5 million people without food during the 2016/17 season.

Malawi signed up as an ARC member state in 2015 to try and address the impacts of the flood and subsequent droughts. African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) worked closely with government representatives and other stakeholders to ensure the parametric model was tailored to the country’s specific vulnerabilities. Using AfricaRisk View to monitor weather patterns and agricultural impacts, the insurance product was designed to trigger payouts when indicators reached thresholds that signalled potential disaster.

From November 2023 to April 2024, the country experienced less than 20% of its typical rainfall. Africa RiskView, ARC’s early warning software, recorded that approximately 4.7 million Malawians were directly affected by the drought conditions.

In March 2024, the government of Malawi declared a national state of disaster, and in April 2024, ARC Ltd.’s parametric insurance model was activated as the dry spells reached the threshold. This anticipatory insurance model allows for faster disbursement of funds and ensures that affected countries can implement pre-planned responses without waiting for lengthy damage assessments.

The Republic of Malawi received a $11.2 million payout, which was allocated to over 235,000 households in the Lower Shire and Southern regions where crop failures were the worst. Additionally, cash transfers were provided to approximately 118,000 households in the Central region.

The African Development Bank, which has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ARC. to cooperate in preparing, developing, and implementing projects and programmes in climate change and risk resilience in member countries, financed the insurance payment through its African Development Fund and Africa Disaster Risk Financing (ADRiFi) Programme Multi-Donor Trust Fund. Since its establishment in 2019, the ADRiFi programme has significantly contributed to the financial protection of over six million people across the continent, invested more than $100 million, and supported 16 African countries to access sovereign insurance and financial protection against climate hazards.

Building climate resilience long-term

ARC Ltd. provides parametric insurance services to AU Member States and farmer organisations, employing innovative financing mechanisms to pool disaster-related risk across Africa and transferring it to international risk markets. “Our parametric insurance model was designed to address climate-induced shocks,” explains CEO Lesley Ndlovu. “Unlike traditional insurance models, which only provide payouts based on verified damages after an event, parametric insurance is triggered by specific, pre-agreed conditions, such as rainfall deficits or temperature anomalies.”

While ARC Ltd.’s immediate focus in Malawi has been to provide relief in the aftermath of the 2023/24 drought, the longer-term goal is to help the country build resilience against future climate shocks. Its ongoing food security concerns have underscored the importance of timely, targeted financial interventions in responding to climate-induced disasters.

By using anticipatory insurance models, ARC Ltd. is helping countries like Malawi plan for and respond to disasters in a way that minimises economic disruption and protects vulnerable populations. This approach requires ongoing collaboration between governments and humanitarian organisations to expand coverage to more vulnerable communities and to ensure that payout funds are used effectively.

**Ends**

For more information about The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd), or to arrange an interview, please contact Sonnette at sonnette@bigambitions.co.za.

About ARC Ltd.

The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) is a financial affiliate of the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group, a specialised agency of the African Union (AU), an initiative designed to improve current responses to climate-related food security emergencies.

ARC Ltd. is a mutual insurance facility comprised of its members, which have included Kenya, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Mali, Malawi, the Gambia, Burkina Faso, Chad, Zimbabwe, Togo, Madagascar, and Zambia.

The membership also includes its capital contributors who have provided premium subsidies, including USAID, FCDO, SDC, KFW/BMZ, IFAD, AFDB, WFP and STARTNETWORK.

Lesley was selected for his leadership of the innovative hybrid mutual insurer and financial affiliate of the ARC Group, which has been pioneering parametric insurance in Africa to build climate resilience.

Over the past decade, amid escalating climate-driven disasters across Africa, ARC Ltd. has disbursed $230 million in claims payouts to member states and provided coverage to 50 million people.

Under Ndlovu’s leadership, ARC Ltd. has expanded its network of members, donors and partners, increasing access to affordable insurance across the continent and extending protection to marginalised communities, such as refugees, for the first time.

According to TIME, the selection process was influenced by the prominent 2024 theme of climate finance and a focus on candidates demonstrating measurable, scalable achievements and recent action. Ndlovu was recognised in the ‘Defenders’ category, highlighting his leadership in protecting vulnerable African communities from climate risks.

His membership on the Board of Directors of the UN Principles for Sustainable Insurance and his involvement with the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero further reflects his commitment to sustainable practices and addressing climate change.

Says Ndlovu: “It is an honour to be included in the prestigious TIME100 Climate list of changemakers. This recognition underscores the critical role of innovative financial solutions, like parametric insurance, in protecting lives and livelihoods from the escalating impacts of climate change. We remain committed to building climate resilience, and our goal is to expand coverage to all 55 African Union States by 2034.”

See Lesley Ndlovu’s #TIME100Climate list profile here: https://time.com/7172504/lesley-ndlovu/

For the full list click here: https://time.com/time100-climate 

**Ends**

For more information about The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd), or to arrange an interview, please contact Sonnette at sonnette@bigambitions.co.za.

About ARC Ltd.

The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) is a financial affiliate of the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Group, a specialised agency of the African Union (AU), an initiative designed to improve current responses to climate-related food security emergencies.

ARC Ltd. is a mutual insurance facility comprised of its members, which have included Kenya, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Mali, Malawi, the Gambia, Burkina Faso, Chad, Zimbabwe, Togo, Madagascar, and Zambia.

The membership also includes its capital contributors who have provided premium subsidies, including USAID, FCDO, SDC, KFW/BMZ, IFAD, AFDB, WFP and STARTNETWORK.