Your policies are secure, Hollard says after Absa Life deal
Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | Monday June 16, 2025 11:13
The insurer also outlined its strategic direction following the deal. Speaking at a media briefing, Hollard’s managing director, Jane Tselayakgosi said the integration marks the beginning of a unified approach focused on operational efficiency, market expansion and customer-centred service. “This is not just about what has changed. It’s about the new possibilities we are creating,” she told journalists last week. The transaction, which was concluded recently following regulatory approvals, sees Hollard Life taking over Absa Life’s insurance operations in Botswana. Under the agreement, all existing policies, including funeral and cash back products, remain valid under their original terms, Tselayakgosi confirmed.
“There is no capping. Every customer will receive the full benefit as agreed in their respective policies,” she added. It has been noted that customers who hold policies with both Hollard Life and Absa Life are not required to cancel either. “These products complement each other and continue to offer the protection originally intended,” Tselayakgosi said. Her assurances come on the back of concerns from some policyholders regarding a perceived lack of communication during the transition, something the MD acknowledged. “We were bound by confidentiality requirements during the regulatory process. We understand the frustration, and we apologise. “Going forward, we are committed to clear, timely, and open communication,” she assured policyholders. The life insurer’s future strategy centres around three priorities, namely, the development of relevant insurance solutions, workforce readiness and streamlined service delivery. Hollard Life also stated its plans to modernise product offerings using customer insights and technology, while improving internal systems to ensure faster and more efficient service.
The MD stressed that the integration is not only structural but also cultural. “We are building a unified identity grounded in accountability, inclusion, and service excellence,” she said. Additionally, the business will place particular emphasis on delivering services that balance digital convenience with human support. On the other hand, Hollard Life aims to expand into underserved markets by aligning operations to support broader access to insurance. The integration is expected to enhance this expansion by leveraging the strengths of both organisations. “Your cover is secure. Your money is safe. Our promise is to serve you better than ever before,” Tselayakgosi stated when addressing policyholders directly. She added that clients would not experience changes to their existing benefits unless initiated by the customer. The company has committed to ongoing updates as it continues the integration process and will introduce new engagement initiatives to keep clients informed. “Our focus now is to build on this foundation with transparency and purpose,” Tselayakgosi said.