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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/.

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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.

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 

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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.

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.

ARC Ltd. also joins fellow Regional Risk Pools – the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility Segregated Portfolio Company (CCRIF SPC), Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC), and Southeast Asia Disaster Risk Insurance Facility (SEADRIF) – to engage with global stakeholders during these two weeks and further address the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities.

Strengthening financial and operational preparedness

Southern Africa is highly susceptible to a range of shocks, including climate-related disasters like floods and droughts, as well as pandemics, conflict, and social unrest, which increase fragility in the region. The World Bank Group Strategy for Fragility, Conflict and Violence (FCV) 2020–2025 recognises climate change as a significant driver of FCV and as a threat multiplier.

This vulnerability is often compounded by a lack of financial preparedness. As a result, countries over-rely on reactive financing instruments and ad-hoc budget reallocations for disaster relief. This diverts crucial resources from health, education, and social protection, undermining broader development gains.

The Regional Emergency Preparedness and Inclusive Recovery (REPAIR) Programme, a collaborative initiative launched in July 2024 by the World Bank, ARC Ltd., the Global Shield, and their partners, aims to address this challenge by strengthening participating countries’ financial and operational preparedness for such shocks.

On 14 November, from 12:30 to 13:30, Senior Programme Manager Avinash Ramessur will lead ARC Ltd.’s panel discussion on “Strengthening Financial and Operational Preparedness Through Innovative Disaster Risk Financing Solutions”. The panel will explore the instruments and products developed to assist climate-vulnerable countries. The panellists are:

• A World Bank representative
• ARC Ltd. CEO Lesley Ndlovu
• UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Director General of Economics, Climate and Global Issues, Jenny Bates
• Howden Group CEO of Climate Risk & Resilience Rowan Douglas
• Mozambique’s Ministry of Economy and Finance Director: Climate Finance Unit, and government representative under the ARC Drought Insurance Policy and REPAIR Programme, Albano Manjate

Innovative insurance solutions for the most vulnerable in Africa

Escalating extreme weather events disrupt agricultural productivity, leading to failed crops and damaged harvests, increasing food insecurity and water scarcity. Additionally, a humanitarian crisis is unfolding with disasters forcing people to flee their homes to live in overcrowded refugee camps or urban slums with little access to basic public services. These vulnerable and marginalised communities are particularly susceptible to ongoing climate calamities.

On 18 November, from 11:45 to 12:45, Underwriting Manager and Humanitarian Lead Gloria Womitso will moderate another ARC Ltd. session, exploring initiatives like the Replica Programme, which supports governments by enabling humanitarian organisations to replicate government disaster risk insurance policies, providing coverage for vulnerable communities. ARC Ltd. recently extended the programme to the UN Refugee Agency, and for the first time, refugees and displaced persons are also protected.

Womitso will be joined by:

• United Nations Children’s Fund Chief of Innovative and Alternative Finance for Children, Solomon Thomas will present on their initiatives to support children and the youth.
• The Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director of Inclusive Green Growth, Ambassador for Sustainable Development and Arctic Ambassador, Wampie Libon will discuss efforts to integrate sustainability into African development, while addressing climate change and resilience for the most vulnerable populations.
• USAID Bureau for Resilience, Environment, and Food Security Deputy Assistant Administrator Ann Vaughan will share insights on integrating food and nutrition security into resilience building, with a focus on marginalised communities.
• Food and Agriculture Organization Operations Officer Sylvie Wabbes will present on FAO initiatives for securing food through anticipatory action and financial resilience.
• ARC Ltd. CEO Lesley Ndlovu will share information aboutinnovative insurance products developed by company and its partners to assist governments in times of crisis.

Regional Risk Pools and loss and damage

Risk pooling mechanisms offer a lifeline for at-risk countries, especially small island and coastal states, disproportionately impacted by loss and damage caused by climate change. These mechanisms allow governments to transfer risk and access rapid liquidity when disasters strike.

While the Loss and Damage Fund aims to provide financial relief post-disaster, risk pools are based on a pre-arranged financing structure that enables rapid payouts to governments based on predetermined triggers, such as rainfall levels or drought conditions. This approach facilitates early intervention before communities are forced to resort to negative coping strategies, complementing the broader objectives of the Loss and Damage Fund.

The Regional Risk Pools entity – comprising the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility Segregated Portfolio Company (CCRIF SPC), the Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Company (PCRIC), the Southeast Asia Disaster Risk Insurance Facility (SEADRIF), and ARC Ltd. – was formed to assist countries across several regions in this regard.

On 13 November, ARC Ltd. CEO Lesley Ndlovu, CCRIF SPC CEO Isaac Anthony, PCRIC CEO Aholotu Palu, and SEADRIF Executive Director and Board Member Benedikt Signer led a discussion on how collaboration among the Regional Risk Pools, through sharing knowledge, experience, and resources for pre-arranged funding enhances climate resilience.

The risk pools can significantly expand their reach by attracting more international investment, and the Global Shield Programme (GSP), a joint initiative of the G7 and V20, has come on board. It provides additional funding, enabling higher coverage limits and greater access for low-income nations.

The Regional Risk Pool leaders will also join the Co-Director of the Global Shield Secretariat, Dr Astrid Zwick; Head of the Global Shield Solutions Platform, Annette Detken and Co-Head Karsten Löffler, on 16 November from 11:00 to 12:30, at the Climate, Peace & Transboundary Resilience Pavilion. They will discuss the implementation progress of the GSP for Regional Risk Pools, and its role it in strengthening the transboundary resilience of climate-vulnerable countries. The conversation will conclude with a signing ceremony signalling their commitment to a joint way forward.

ARC Ltd. innovates online

ARC Ltd. is launching its newly designed website at COP29, which reflects the company’s involvement in the disaster risk insurance industry and its impact on African countries. Following the company’s recent 10th anniversary, and as it continues to expand its reach across the continent, this refreshed online presence will better support member states and partners. The site creates a more intuitive space for collaboration and access to critical resources, reinforcing ARC Ltd.’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and accessibility, and making vital information and resources easier to find for a broader range of users.

Key new features include dedicated partners and member state sections, highlighting ARC Ltd.’s extensive network of public and private sector players involved in climate resilience efforts across Africa. These sections also demonstrate how ARC Ltd. and its partners share expertise and resources to tackle climate challenges. 

A brand-new “Impact” section showcases case studies and success stories from member states and partners, offering first-hand accounts of the transformative potential of disaster risk financing solutions for vulnerable communities. 

Visit our website on here.

A critical time for climate action

Vulnerable communities face unprecedented threats from climate change, including natural disasters, food insecurity, and displacement. COP29 provides a crucial opportunity to mobilise international resources and ensure accountability for delivering effective climate action. Integrating climate finance with disaster risk solutions is essential for a comprehensive approach to managing these escalating risks.

As ARC Ltd. engages with stakeholders at COP29, it seeks to ensure the voices of vulnerable communities are heard and addressed through targeted interventions. The insights shared and the partnerships formed will be instrumental in shaping a climate-resilient future for Africa, aligning with ARC Ltd.’s mission to protecting lives and livelihoods across the continent.

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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.

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.

The innovative and unique nature of this instrument lies in the combination of a subsidized loan offer with a parametric insurance product. Such project will enable BOAD member countries to bring forward their climate investments and projects whilst building greater resilience. In the event of natural or health disaster such as drought, flooding, epidemic or pandemic, the insurance mechanism will be triggered, temporarily lifting borrowers’ repayment obligations.

The insurance mechanism therefore indirectly provides financial assistance, should the need arise, without affecting the underlying loan agreements, therefore providing flexibility and rapid financial relief.

Such innovative solution promoted by BOAD, at the initiative of KfW, is the result of a cooperation between several players: African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.), which insures BOAD against losses related to the deferral of annual instalments, Munich Re, which provides reinsurance to ARC Ltd. and which has been mandated with Frankfurt School of Finance by KfW to develop and implement the project.

“BOAD and WAEMU member countries welcome the introduction of this innovative tool, which provides financial support to the most vulnerable and exposed countries to climate and health risks, by facilitating debt servicing and improving resilience to shocks, “said Mrs Gnekele GNASSINGBE, Head of Treasury and Capital Markets Department of BOAD.

For Michael Wehinger, Head of KfW West Africa “this innovative financial tool, which combines subsidized loans with parametric insurance, represents a significant step in building greater resilience for WAEMU member countries to tackle climate and health challenges.

“ARC Ltd. is committed to helping African countries build the financial resilience required to address the unpredictable impacts of climate and health disasters. By integrating parametric insurance into sovereign loan portfolios, we are providing immediate relief and enabling countries to maintain their development path even in the face of adversity. This innovative initiative reflects the importance of innovative financial solutions and reinforces our shared mission to provide rapid support”, declared Anais Symenouh, Head of the Legal Department.

Commenting on this achievement, Celine Harden, Project Manager at the Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, said: “We have been involved in the development of the product from the outset, and we welcome BOAD ‘s pioneering role in introducing disaster-adapted loans. This not only represents a new instrument in the development banks’ offer, but also enables countries to better address the aftermath of natural disasters by using pre-established financing mechanisms. “

Michael Roth, Munich Re’s Public Sector Practice Lead and Project Manager on behalf of Munich Re commented: “We are very proud to have contributed our expertise to the development of the disaster­ adapted loan program. The launch of this program is a superb demonstration of the use of parametric insurance to cover the maturities of sovereign loan portfolios. BOAD’s success should serve as a model to be replicated in other regions of Africa, and beyond.”

About West African Development Bank

The West African Development Bank (BOAD) is the common development finance institution of the member countries of the West African Monetary Union (WAMU). It is an international public institution whose purpose, as provided under Article 2 of its Articles of Association, is to promote the balanced development of its member countries and foster economic integration within West Africa by financing priority development projects. It is accredited to the three climate finance facilities (GEF, AF, GCF). Since 2009, BOAD sits as an observer at the UNFCCC and actively participates in discussions on devising an international climate finance system. Since January 2013, it has been home to the first Regional Collaboration Centre (RCC) on Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), whose aim is to provide direct support to governments, NGOs and the private sector in identifying and developing CDM projects. As of October 15 2023, the Bank has been co-chairing alongside Bancoldex, the Colombian Business and Export Development Bank, the International Development Finance Club (IDFC) which brings together 26 national, regional and multilateral development banks from around the world.

About ARC Ltd.

African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) is a pan-African financial institution specialized in the management of risks related to natural disasters, in particular climate risks. As an African Union-led entity, ARC Ltd. provides tailor­ made insurance solutions to African countries to help them address the devastating impacts of adverse climate events including droughts, floods and cyclones. The main objective of ARC Ltd. is to enable African governments to respond quickly and effectively to crises by releasing emergency funds as soon as a disaster strikes, thereby reducing dependency on international aid and building greater resilience for communities. Through its innovative insurance products, ARC Ltd. plays a crucial role in promoting food security and protecting livelihoods across the African continent.

The Government of Ghana has taken proactive steps to better protect its agricultural sector against the risk of drought. The policy, designed to provide financial relief in the event of a drought, will enable the government to respond quickly and efficiently to support affected farmers and communities. Funds from the insurance payout will be directed towards safeguarding food security and stabilizing the agricultural sector.

Ghana’s investment in the financial resilience of vulnerable livelihoods marks the culmination of a truly collaborative process, set in place by the Global Shield against Climate Risks Initiative. The convening of relevant stakeholders, and a tailor-made, demand-driven and inclusive approach to identify key climate risks and viable pre-arranged finance mechanisms paved the way for this first drought insurance policy.

Ghana’s proactive approach, in collaboration with ARC, sets a strong example for other African nations facing similar climate-related challenges. As the continent confronts the realities of climate change, risk transfer mechanisms, such as drought insurance, will play a crucial role in protecting lives, securing livelihoods, and strengthening climate resilience across Africa.

“The Government of Ghana has shown foresight and initiative by implementing this first-ever drought policy,” says Malvern Chirume, Chief Underwriting Officer, ARC Ltd. “Within the context of climate change where drought events will increase in frequency and severity, the country is now protected against a potential crisis.” Furthermore, Chirume emphasises that the policy extends beyond financial protection: “It ensures that vulnerable communities in Ghana can continue to thrive despite increasingly erratic weather patterns due to the early warning tools available to the government. This policy is also a key component of our broader efforts to enhance climate resilience across Africa.”

“We are delighted to see the implementation of the Global Shield process come to fruition in Ghana, through multi-stakeholder, collective action, marking the completion of the first in-country process. We know that disasters don’t wait to happen – they strike with little warning, so the importance of pre-arranged finance mechanisms cannot be stressed enough. With the ARC policy in place, we are assuring the resilience of vulnerable livelihoods amid the ever-growing threats posed by climate change”, says Nilesh Prakash, Co-Director of the Global Shield Secretariat.

“The GSSP is very pleased to financially support the purchase of ARC drought insurance by the Government of Ghana for the benefit of vulnerable populations”, says Karsten Löffler, Co-Head of GSSP. “It is a good example of what pooling funds for pre-agreed risk financing solutions and international coordination can achieve.”

“KfW Development Bank is very happy that Ghana is becoming an active member of the ARC family”, states Malte Marek, Senior Portfolio Manager at KfW. “Being the second largest economy in western Africa, Ghana can set the scene for other countries joining ARC in the future.”  

“Ghana’s participation in the ARC risk pool is evidence of the proactive approach that the government is taking to protect the lives and livelihoods of the population that relies on agriculture as a source of livelihoods” according to Charlotte Norman, Government Coordinator for the ARC Programme. “This protection is one of many initiatives that the Government of Ghana is taking to boost its capacity to respond to various climatic shocks that affect its population”.

END

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 Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Somalia, Benin, Ghana, Senegal, Gambia, Tchad, Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, Mauritania, Niger, Madagascar, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Coromos, Kenya.

The membership also includes its capital contributors, the British FCDO and KfW / BMZ.   

Media contact:

Sonnette Fourie

sonnette@bigambitions.co.za. 

About KfW

KfW Development Bank has been helping the German Federal Government to achieve its goals in development policy and international development cooperation for more than 60 years. On behalf of the German Federal Government, and primarily the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), KfW finances and supports programmes and projects that mainly involve public sector players in developing countries and emerging economies – from their conception and execution to monitoring their success. The goal is to help our partner countries fight poverty, maintain peace, protect both environment and climate and shape globalisation in an appropriate way.

Media contact

Malte Marek
malte.marek@kfw.de

About Global Shield Solutions Platform 

The Global Shield Solutions Platform (GSSP), managed by Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, is a multi-donor grant facility and one of the financing vehicles under the Global Shield against Climate Risks. With the mandate to foster the actual development and use of Climate and Disaster Risk Finance and Insurance (CDRFI) solutions, the GSSP contributes to effectively addressing losses and damages exacerbated by climate change.

Media contact

Marianna Aguilera

m.aguilera@fs.de

About the Global Shield against Climate Risks

With accelerating climate change, more severe and frequent extreme weather events are expected to threaten sustainable development gains of particularly vulnerable countries. To address this, the V20 Finance Ministers together with the Group of Seven (G7) and other supporting countries, launched the Global Shield against Climate Risks at COP27. With around EUR 300 million raised in funds, the aim of the Global Shield is to increase protection for vulnerable people by providing and facilitating substantially higher and more effective pre-arranged finance against disasters.

Media contact

Michelle Maibaum

michelle.maibaum@globalshield.org

Luis Alton, Senior Financial Sector Specialist at the World Bank’s Disaster Risk Financing and Insurance Program highlighted the inefficiencies in current resource allocation for mitigating climate shocks. “While many countries have multiple instruments to help them with this, they’re not joined up strategically, which can lead to inefficiencies,” he said. “For example, where insurance should be used for extreme events, it is used to cover less extreme events instead.”

The retreat also addressed the rising number of displaced persons due to climate events. In 2010, there were 44 million globally displaced persons worldwide, including those internally displaced, refugees, those who have crossed borders, and those looking for protection. In 2024, this number has spiked to 120 million people.

“Many of these refugees come from areas where there are other conflicts, like war and violence. They also live in climate disaster risk areas and will be further displaced as extreme weather events increase. So, the numbers are only going to rise. It’s clear that the models in place are not enough,” said UNHCR Climate Insurance Lead and Strategic Risk Advisor Mojisola Terry.

“We need to disrupt the way institutions respond to, utilise resources, and fund their climate interventions,” Terry added, explaining that it should no longer be a debate. “We want to demonstrate that investing in risk mitigation will lead to more resilient communities, better assistance, better targeting, and hopefully address the humanitarian landscape.”

Phil Stevens, International Finance Director at the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), who also serves on the ARC Group Board, referred to key climate discussions, including those at COP29 this year, saying: “ARC Ltd. is going to be instrumental to these conversations, as well as the broader conversations we’re hearing around the Bridgetown 3.0 initiative and the call to action from President Biden, to name a few.”

The Bridgetown initiative calls for urgent action to reform the international financial architecture, while President Joe Biden has called on global leaders to catalyse climate action through the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate.

Increasing impact through innovation

The ARC Group’s innovative approach to climate resilience was highlighted by Group Governing Board Chairperson Dr Mothae Anthony Maruping. He explained that, in the 12 years of its existence, the group has expanded its products beyond drought to include outbreaks and epidemics, tropical cyclones and floods, and brought humanitarian donor partners on board. “We will keep challenging ourselves to come up with new and creative solutions by actively listening and engaging fully in new dialogues that will define our path,” he said.

Terry noted that climate resilience must be looked at holistically. “That’s why the partnership between the UNHCR and ARC Ltd. to increase protection to those who need it the most through the Replica programme is logical and timely,” she explained. The Replica programme extends ARC Ltd.’s parametric insurance to humanitarian organisations. Through the programme, humanitarian organisations can take out insurance on behalf of a country against climate-induced threats and disease outbreaks.

The UNHCR took out a modest Replica premium for drought insurance in the central region of Malawi for 2024. In April, the release of funds was triggered, resulting in a payout which assisted 20,000 people – 60% of Malawi’s refugee community.

“When it comes to implementing these resources, we always look at how we can reach out to the most vulnerable,” said Doshanie Kadokera, Malawi Government coordinator. Other partners and donors have also been inspired. “Humanity Insure has agreed to supplement the premium subsidy for Malawi for 2024/25,” Terry explained.

The UK, through FCDO, has been a donor partner of ARC Ltd. since its inception in 2014. This long-term commitment demonstrates FCDO’s support for the company’s work on the continent. “Since then, we have provided coverage to 130 million African people,” shared Stevens.

Continuous improvement for climate resilience

Terry pointed out that no perfect climate resilience model exists, only opportunities to improve. “The UNHCR is committed to continuing to work with ARC Ltd., as well as other partners, to make sure we have access to the best possible data so we can plan and prepare better in the event of disasters.”

Kadokera added that there is a need for ownership among governments when it comes to building climate resilience in African countries. “Malawi’s risk management strategies and policies with ARC Ltd. and partners like the UNHCR, reflect our commitment to protecting our citizens and their livelihoods.”

ARC Ltd. believes in looking internally to constantly improve. “Looking ahead, it’s clear that we still have a lot of work to do. Our focus remains on three priorities: expanding coverage to all 55 African Union countries, managing capital funding and reinsurance to maintain an A- credit rating, and strengthening its team and processes for greater efficiency,” explained CEO Lesley Ndlovu.

Unified action the key

The retreat was also an opportunity to celebrate ARC Ltd.’s 10th anniversary and reflect on its achievements while charting a forward-looking strategy for sustainable climate risk management across the continent. “It was truly moving to hear from so many of our partners and members who shared their experiences and congratulatory messages. These testimonials are a testament to our shared success,” said Ndlovu. Since its inception in 2014, ARC Ltd has paid out $229.8 million in claims, provided 1.2 billion insurance coverage and protected 30 million Africans per year.

ARC Ltd. Board Chair Dr Maxwell Mkwezalamba lauded ARC Ltd.’s pivotal role within the broader ARC ecosystem. “Over the past decade, ARC Ltd. has translated visionary goals into actionable financial solutions for member states, delivering critical insurance coverage that protects them from the devastating impact of climate disasters.”

Dr Maruping emphasised the importance of continued collaboration among stakeholders to address the climate insurance gap: “We are operating in a very dynamic industry, and while we can all agree that the challenges are complex, when we stand together as a united front, there are massive opportunities for all of us.”

He accredited ARC Ltd.’s success to its partnership ethos in Africa, “whether it’s with partner governments like our own, the African Development Bank, the World Bank, or the private sector. I think ARC Ltd. is a great example of how we can modernise not only partnerships, but development finance as a whole to continue to impact people’s lives.” 

Ndlovu concluded that ARC Ltd. will continue working closely with governments, financial institutions, and technical partners to develop sustainable, scalable solutions for climate resilience.

**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.

JOHANNESBURG – ARC Ltd. celebrates several milestones in its newly released 2023 integrated annual report. The company commemorates its 10^th anniversary and outlines a decade of impact, which saw it paying out over $170 million in claims and underwriting a record $25 million in premiums for Pool 10A – the highest since its inception.

“From covering 12.9 million people in 2014, we protected 26.4 million in 2023. We have also expanded our footprint to 39 member states,” says ARC Ltd. CEO Lesley Ndlovu. “We are pleased that behind the figures are communities that have benefited. We are also encouraged to see an increase in the number of countries utilising insurance as part of their disaster risk financing matrix.”

The company returned to profitability in 2023, achieving a net profit of $13 million from a $29 million loss over the last two years. This was largely due to expansion and diversification efforts across Africa.

ARC Ltd.’s gross written premiums amounted to $56.1 million; gross earned premiums were $46.8 million, and it achieved a net income of $14.2 million. A notable growth driver was the expansion of ARC Ltd.’s non-sovereign business segment, which saw gross written premiums amounting to $14.78 million. This growth can be attributed to the addition of policies such as:

• The World Bank Malawi social protection policy with a gross premium of $10.25 million for a two-year policy.
• The World Bank Republic of Djibouti’s protection policy with a gross premium of $2 million for a five-year policy.
• Drive Pool 9 endorsement policies, with a gross premium of $1.45 million.

ARC Ltd. strengthened strategic partnerships throughout 2023, increasing its capacity to support African nations in managing climate and health risks. A key aspect of this expansion has been securing, renewing and enhancing critical insurance policies including:

• The World Food Programme-Madagascar policy, renewed for two seasons. ARC Ltd. retained a 95% share.
• The renewal of the One Acre Fund Kenya policy. ARC Ltd.’s share increased from 4% to 10%.

These policies ensure that vital resources remain available to support Africa’s agricultural sector and food security, particularly in times of climate-induced crises. At the same time, donor partners play a pivotal role in ARC Ltd.’s business model, enabling the company to cover more vulnerable communities, and in 2023, it welcomed the US Government in an ambitious partnership to expand parametric insurance in Africa and protect smallholder famers.

Customisation and diversification

ARC Ltd.’s initial focus was drought insurance, one of the most prevalent hazards in Africa. Over the past decade, it has expanded its coverage to include both crops and livestock, and additional perils like floods, outbreaks and epidemics, and tropical cyclones.

“Pioneering innovative products and risk transfer solutions tailored to individual countries’ changing needs are central to our activities,” explains ARC Ltd.’s COO Ange Chitate. “With the increasing severity and frequency of natural disasters, this phenomenon highlights the importance of having multiple financial instruments to complement the insurance we provide.”

In 2023, the company introduced several pioneering products, including Africa’s first flood risk insurance. This product, developed in collaboration with JBA Risk Management, offers customised flood risk policies for six countries – Madagascar, Mozambique, Malawi, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, and Togo – enabling these nations to better manage and respond to flood risks.

A multi-year, multi-peril insurance product was also launched in Djibouti, covering the country’s primary risks of drought and excess rainfall. This groundbreaking five-year agreement is the first of its kind on the continent, providing ongoing capacity building and disaster risk insurance.

ARC Ltd.’s focus on innovative insurance solutions extended to social protection, with the development of a novel insurance mechanism for Malawi. This shock-responsive policy is triggered when rainfall levels predict drought, releasing funds for cash transfers to assist additional beneficiaries.

In terms of corporate social responsibility, ARC Ltd. pioneered the first-ever postgraduate Africa Scholarship Programme in partnership with Milliman Inc. The programme will broaden the talent pool in Africa, particularly in studies relating to mitigating the impact of climate change. It is also assisting students who need help to afford postgraduate studies. Four scholarships were offered covering up to three years of full-time postgraduate study at select universities on the continent. Another cohort will be introduced in 2024.

International recognition

ARC Ltd. continues to be recognised as a leader in ESG, having been awarded the global insurance industry’s best scores for the third consecutive year by the international ESG research and evaluation authority, Sustainalytics. The company improved from low-risk last year at 10.2 to negligible risk this year at 5.7. ARC Ltd. also retained its top position in the diversified insurance sector, with the lowest exposure score among its peers at 24 and the strongest management score at 80.3.

US credit rating agency Fitch also upgraded ARC Ltd.’s outlook to stable due to the progress on its development goals, product diversification and strong donor support. The company received an IFS Rating of “A-” and a Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) of “BBB+”. Fitch noted its excellent claims payout track record and “extremely strong” capital position.

Building on the momentum

ARC Ltd. has identified priority areas for 2024 with growth, innovation and increased impact top of the list. The company plans to expand its climate and health insurance solutions across all 55 African Union member states by 2034, providing each nation with customised products that address their unique risks.

According to Ndlovu, reaching this level of scale and diversification will enable ARC Ltd. to become financially self-sufficient, fully deliver on its mandate from the African Union, and optimise its balance sheet.

Next is capital funding and reinsurance. “As the global reinsurance market hardens, costs rise while capacity shrinks. Keeping reinsurance expenses in check will be crucial for maintaining affordable premiums for member states,” Ndlovu says.

Third is strengthening ARC Ltd.’s people, processes and overall performance, he explains. The intention is to continue expanding teams to bring in more skills and talent to meet changing climate risks and client needs. “At the same time, we will automate and streamline processes to improve efficiency as our business volumes increase.”

Lastly, the company plans to increase its focus on communication, engagement and advocacy. There are still many opportunities to tell the ARC Ltd. story on a global stage and draw greater awareness to its mission.

ARC Ltd. is geared toward continued success by building on its 2023 achievements. “With concerted effort across these priority areas, we can take our vision to the next level and create an even more substantial impact for African citizens. We have built strong momentum, and now is the time to accelerate,” Ndlovu concludes.

Read and download the full report here.

**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.

Ahead of the 2023/24 planting season, the Republic of Malawi secured an anticipatory sovereign insurance policy with ARC Ltd, the insurance affiliate of the ARC Group. The government’s participation in ARC climate risk insurance was facilitated by an insurance premium paid in part by the government and a premium support contribution from the African Development Bank (AfDB)’s Africa Disaster Risk Financing Programme Multi-Donor Trust Fund (ADRiFi-MDTF).

The record-breaking dry spell, exacerbated by the El Niño weather pattern, led to extensive crop failures. His Excellency Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, the President of the Republic of Malawi, declared a state of emergency in 23 districts out of the country’s 28 districts. Over 2 million farming households impacted by the drought face food insecurity and will need assistance, emphasising the importance of resilience building.  

“This severity of this drought has been the worst in 100 years, and one in four of our people are at risk of going hungry. It is a great moment for Malawi when you have friends that come when you are at your lowest. It makes us feel energised. What has happened is unprecedented, and we say – zikomo“, he remarked.

“The government is seeing results from its proactive and forward-thinking approach to managing natural disasters; the resources will play a crucial role in strengthening the resilience of the affected communities,” stated the Honourable Simplex-Chithyola Banda, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs.

“It is in moments like these that we can truly appreciate the role of sovereign insurance as an innovative financial instrument to help bolster Africa’s resilience,” said Lesley Ndlovu, CEO of ARC Ltd. “The southern African drought has tested the ARC concept, and we are proud to be enabling early response and coming to the aid of those in need”, he concluded.   

Through the innovative Replica programme which allows humanitarian actors to purchase insurance on behalf of a country, Replica partner, the UNHCR, also took out a policy on behalf of refugees. This collaborative approach ensures that more people in need, including refugees, can be reached with critical assistance. For the first time, forcibly displaced communities and their hosts were included in insurance, increasing the total number of those covered and protected. The combined payouts to the Republic of Malawi and Replica partner, UNHCR, will go a long way towards complementing other in-country recovery efforts.

“UNHCR is proud to have joined the ARC insurance risk pool for the first time in Malawi. The payout of just over $400 000 that we received will play a pivotal role in addressing the needs of refugees affected by the recent El-Nino induced drought”, said Mr Kouame Cyr Modeste, UNHCR Country Representative. “This funding will be used to enhance food security and improve the livelihoods of forcibly displaced persons and their host communities”, he concluded.

In line with the Final Implementation Plan developed as part of the ARC contingency planning process, that guides the use of the payout, the government will use this fund to procure and distribute food aid. Replica partner, UNHCR, will use the payout to complement the same activities and reach more people.

“Malawi’s resilience has grown from strength to strength, all thanks to the joint efforts from the government, the ARC Group, and partners. This payout is yet another testament to the value of preparedness,” said Ibrahima Cheick Diong, UN Assistant Secretary General and ARC Group Director General. “Our goal is to reach the most vulnerable with speed, and the ARC mechanism is designed to do just that. We look forward to seeing how these funds will contribute to rapid response”. 

The combined payouts to the Republic of Malawi and Replica partner, UNHCR, are expected to have a significant impact on the ongoing humanitarian response to the drought.

**ends**

Media Contacts

For African Risk Capacity Group: Michele Karambiri, Head of Communication, ARC Group, Email: michele.karambiri@arc.int  

For UNHCR:

For more information, please visit: www.arc.int

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