By Alex Adi
Heads of various insurance companies across the sub-region met in Lomé, Togo, to reflect on the achievements, challenges, and prospects of the ECOWAS Brown Card system. Ghana’s Henry Bukari officially handed over his position as Chairman of the ECOWAS Brown Card Council of Bureaux to Mr. Simon Pierre Gouem, the Managing Director of Sanlam Insurance, Togo.
The ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance Scheme was established 42 years ago by the ECOWAS Heads of State to facilitate the seamless movement of people and goods across the sub-region. The scheme provides swift and fair compensation to victims of motor vehicle accidents caused by non-resident motorists in ECOWAS member states. It extends motor insurance coverage across borders, promoting regional integration and ensuring the protection of ECOWAS citizens.
The insurance scheme has also played a vital role in supporting cross-border commerce and travel while addressing challenges with claims settlements. The 40th AGM discussed progress made in modernizing services, including digitizing insurance processes for improved efficiency and the automatic issuance of Brown Cards.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, encouraged stakeholders to continue implementing reforms that strengthen free movement within the region, particularly through digital transformation.
Mr. Henry Bukari, Managing Director of Phoenix Insurance, completed his one-year term as Chairman, during which he successfully revised the scheme’s technical texts governing claims settlement and aligned modern practices with sub-regional systems like the CIMA Code. He also emphasized zonal collaboration. In his speech, Mr. Bukari urged stakeholders to empathize with accident victims and prioritize swift compensation.
The AGM addressed the future of cross-border insurance in the digital age, resonating with Togo’s commitment to digital transformation. Some individuals were honoured for their significant contributions to the success of the ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance Scheme.
