Britam General Insurance has paid Limuru Country Club Sh71.14 million as compensation following the fire that razed the iconic clubhouse last month.
The historic club, known for its championship golf course, suffered extensive damage when embers from the fireplace in the main bar area ignited the structure on January 4. The fire forced the management to suspend golfing activities at the facility.
The club was insured under Britam’s fire industrial insurance policy, which offers insurance cover for buildings, equipment, and business assets. Now the payout will help the owners to rebuild and reopen.
“This settlement is a testament to Britam’s reliability as a fire insurance partner. Limuru Country Club is an integral part of Kenya’s sporting landscape and we are proud to have expedited this claim within a month to enable a swift reconstruction,” said James Mbithi, CEO at Britam General Insurance.
“Fire insurance is not just a regulatory requirement—it is an investment in continuity and resilience. At Britam, we remain dedicated to helping our clients strengthen their risk management strategies to safeguard against unforeseen losses.
Britam is the second largest short-term insurer in the country, accounting for 9.7 percent of the Sh117.67 billion gross premium income underwritten in the half-year ended June 2024. Old Mutual General Insurance leads with a 10 percent market share.
Speaking at the cheque handover ceremony on the club’s grounds, Limuru Country Club chairman John Keru said the payout emphasizes the role of comprehensive insurance for sports and recreational facilities.
"The fire was a tough blow to our members, staff, and the larger sporting community. However, Britam’s swift action has given us a strong foundation to rebuild and continue hosting premier golfing and social events. This experience underscores the need for institutions to prioritize robust fire insurance coverage," said Mr Keru.
With the financial backing secured, Limuru Country Club is planning to restore its clubhouse. The private members’ club was established in 1945 by colonial settlers.
Other than the golf course, the club consists of lawn bowling, tennis courts, a cricket pitch, squash courts and a swimming pool.
