Hollard International expands in Africa with Absa Life acquisitions

Published on May 11, 2025
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Portrait of Pravin Kalpagé, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hollard International


Hollard International (HINT), Hollard Group Insurance’s international business, has taken a significant step forward in its Africa growth strategy with the completion of two major acquisitions in Mozambique and Botswana.

These transactions strengthen Hollard’s presence on the continent and support its long-term vision of expanding access to insurance across high-growth markets.

Strengthening presence in Mozambique

In Mozambique, Hollard Moçambique Seguros has acquired 100% of Global Alliance Seguros, S.A., marking a key milestone in its 24-year presence in the country.

The integration is expected to enhance Hollard’s ability to support sectors such as energy, infrastructure, mining and agriculture, which are central to Mozambique’s economic development.

This move also strengthens Hollard’s portfolio and broadens its capabilities to serve a diverse customer base, including SMEs, individual policyholders and large corporates.

Expanding life insurance in Botswana

In Botswana, Hollard International has acquired Absa Life Botswana, bringing the full life insurance business into its portfolio.

The acquisition aligns with Hollard’s strategy to build scale and deepen its presence in markets where insurance penetration remains relatively low but growth potential is significant.

A broader strategic transaction

Both acquisitions form part of a wider agreement with Absa Group, which includes the transfer of insurance operations in Mozambique and Botswana.

This broader transaction supports Hollard’s ambition to strengthen its regional footprint and enhance its offering across multiple markets.

Integration and operational alignment

Over the next 18 months, Hollard will integrate Global Alliance Seguros into its operations, aligning leadership structures, systems and service platforms.

This phased approach is designed to ensure continuity while enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience.

Driving long-term growth across Africa

The acquisitions form part of Hollard International’s broader strategy to expand its footprint across Africa, focusing on building scale, strengthening partnerships and delivering relevant insurance solutions.

The approach is rooted in understanding the unique dynamics of each market to provide products that meet real customer needs.

Building a connected pan-African insurer

Hollard International continues to grow its presence across the continent through both acquisitions and strategic partnerships. Recent developments include collaboration with East Africa’s APA Insurance in Kenya.

Hollard currently operates in eight African countries and is focused on building a more connected, inclusive and resilient insurance ecosystem.

Expanding access through innovation and partnerships

The strategy is anchored in expanding access to insurance and financial services for individuals, SMEs and corporates, while leveraging technology to improve underwriting, servicing and claims.

Through a combination of partnerships, innovation and market expansion, Hollard aims to support economic growth and long-term resilience across Africa.