CIC expands reach with new branch in Kitengela

CIC Insurance has opened a branch in Kitengela, Kajiado County, as it seeks to deepen its national reach.

The insurer follows in the footsteps of financial services firm, Britam, which set up shop in the town in July last year as part of an expansion strategy into the counties.

CIC managing director general insurance Kenneth Kimani said the branch would increase its presence as it plans to open more units in Naivasha and Kilifi in the next few months.

The insurer said the setting up of the Kitengela branch kicks off expansion under its five-year strategic plan where it expects to grow total premiums to Sh45 billion by December 2018, from Sh9 billion as at December 31, 2012.

“We see a lot of potential for market growth in these towns and by taking our services closer to the people, we will be better placed to tap opportunities available especially in the co-operative movement and micro-insurance sector,” Mr Kimani said at the opening ceremony.

The branch operations manager Joseph Ngige said the insurer has tailored products to meet the needs of businesses in the county.

Kitengela is strategically placed as a gateway to Kajiado region. The town is situated near rapidly growing Mlolongo, Athi River, Kinanie, Kyumbi/Makutano, Namanga, Kajiado, Isinya and Kiserian towns.

Besides major banks, the town hosts cooperative societies and microfinance institutions offering loans to members and non-members in need of cash for businesses and for building homes.

Kajiado Governor David Nkedianye said the CIC branch in Kitengela would draw other financial institutions into the county and urged the firm to reinvest profit in the county.

“Employ people from Kitengela in your company, improve the welfare and livelihood of the people of Kajiado,” Mr Nkedianye said.