Travel insurance is often seen as an unnecessary expense, but it can be a lifesaver in case of unforeseen circumstances
BY MR SAMMY MUTHUI
In recent times, significant investments in road, railway, and air transport have revolutionized mobility across East Africa.
Kenyan companies have capitalized on these developments by adapting travel products that cater to various market groups.
Road trips have become a popular weekend activity for individuals and friends, who often drive to neighbouring counties and towns in countries like Uganda and Tanzania.
Families now routinely plan holidays well in advance, especially to popular coastal regions like Mombasa and Diani, thanks to the convenience provided by the Madaraka Express railway service and the modernization of the Nairobi-Mombasa road.
Additionally, annual religious events have also spurred inter-regional travel, with Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda benefiting greatly from this.
For instance, Uganda’s Martyr’s Day attracts pilgrims from across the region to Namugongo, while the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre is a popular visit destination for many Kenyans.
Furthermore, the visa-free agreement between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda has facilitated extended stays for Kenyans across the region, whether for business, tourism, or education.
The completion of the 500-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway has also opened up tourist resort cities such as Kilifi and Lamu, enhancing local tourism
Looking into the future, discussions to open up Africa’s 54-country borders courtesy of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AFCTA) are expected to revolutionize travel at an unprecedented scale, expanding travel bucket lists and tourism numbers across different countries.
However, it’s important to consider the risks associated with travel, which underscores the importance of travel insurance.
Travel insurance is often seen as an unnecessary expense, but it can be a lifesaver in case of unforeseen circumstances.
It provides a financial safety net, allowing you to enjoy your trip without worrying about potential risks.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, emergency evacuations, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, providing a safety net to protect travellers from unforeseen events.
One of the lesser-emphasized benefits of travel insurance is the 24/7 assistance service, which can help with lost passports, legal matters, or other emergencies, and even offer third-party aid to make your travel smoother and more enjoyable.
This service ensures that travellers have access to support at any time, no matter where they are in the world.
For instance, if you misplace your passport, the assistance service can guide you through the process of obtaining a replacement quickly.
In case of legal issues, they can provide advice or connect you with local legal experts.
Additionally, travel insurance can assist one to take care of medical emergencies by coordinating with local healthcare providers and arranging for necessary treatments.
Travel activities like hiking, skiing, or scuba diving increase the risk of accidents.
Travel insurance also provides peace of mind by reducing anxiety and stress levels, allowing travellers to enjoy their journey knowing they are protected against anticipated risks.
It also ensures unexpected costs don’t derail your travel plans and budget.
In the current landscape where the unexpected can disrupt one’s carefully planned trips, travel insurance can no longer be seen as a luxury but a crucial necessity.
It offers itself as a safety net allowing travellers to enjoy their trips while being protected against unforeseen pitfalls.
Minet-Kenya Insurance Brokers Limited CEO Mr Sammy Muthui at the aNairobi office
Ranging from medical emergencies, natural disasters, and trip cancellations, having robust travel insurance ensures you can wade through the swamp of the unknown with peace of mind.
If you’ve invested a significant amount of money in your trip, insurance can protect your investment if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to illness, injury, or family emergencies.
Remember the specific coverage offered by travel insurance policies can vary greatly.
It’s essential to read the policy carefully and choose one that aligns with your travel plans and needs.
Before you pack your bags for your next trip, take a moment to plan and acquire the right travel insurance.
At Minet-Kenya, an insurance and risk management solutions provider, we are here for you at every call.
Minet is a trusted pan-African risk advisory firm that meets the uncertainties of tomorrow by delivering risk and human capital solutions today.
Talk to us at your convenience so that you plan according for your travel insurance.
We are at your next door.
The author is the Chief Executive Officer, Minet- Kenya
