Author: Brian Nyabayo Ndege | Reviewer: GetCovered Kenya Editorial Team
AMACO Insurance Overview
Africa Merchant Assurance Company Limited, widely known as AMACO, is a Kenyan general insurance provider that has been in operation since the year 2000. Positioning itself with the motto "Service beyond the Obvious," AMACO caters to a broad market, providing risk protection for individuals, students, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The company is best known in the market for its motor insurance, travel covers, and highly accessible student personal accident policies.
AMACO Company Profile
Information | Details
Company | Africa Merchant Assurance Company Limited (AMACO)
Country | Kenya
Headquarters | Nairobi, Kenya
Established | 2000
Insurance type | General Insurance
IRA status | Licensed General Insurer (2026)
Key products | Motor, Travel, Personal Accident, WIBA, SME Insurance
Official website | amaco.co.ke
Last verified | August 2026
Company | Africa Merchant Assurance Company Limited (AMACO)
Country | Kenya
Headquarters | Nairobi, Kenya
Established | 2000
Insurance type | General Insurance
IRA status | Licensed General Insurer (2026)
Key products | Motor, Travel, Personal Accident, WIBA, SME Insurance
Official website | amaco.co.ke
Last verified | August 2026
Is AMACO Licensed in Kenya?
Yes. According to the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) 2026 gazette notice, Africa Merchant Assurance Company Limited is fully licensed to operate as a general insurer in Kenya.
The company is authorized to underwrite the following insurance classes: Engineering (02), Fire Domestic (03), Fire Industrial (04), Liability (05), Marine (06), Motor Private (07), Motor Commercial (08), Personal Accident (09), Theft (10), Workmen’s Compensation / WIBA (11), and Miscellaneous (14).
Important Note: AMACO is not licensed to underwrite Class 12 (Medical Insurance) or any long-term (life) insurance products for the 2026 period. Customers seeking health or life coverage will need to source those products from specialized or composite insurers.
Insurance Products Offered by AMACO
AMACO focuses on providing tailored property, liability, and vehicle coverage.
Motor Insurance
Motor insurance is a primary pillar of AMACO's business. They underwrite both private and commercial vehicle risks. The policies are tailored to various needs, protecting owners of family sedans, luxury cars, and commercial fleets against accidental damage, theft, and third-party liabilities.
Travel Insurance
AMACO offers travel insurance designed to protect travelers against unexpected financial risks and losses that may occur while abroad, such as trip cancellations or travel-related emergencies.
Business and SME Insurance
For small and medium enterprises, AMACO packages several flexible covers to protect "biashara" owners. These include:
- Work Injury Benefits Act (WIBA): Mandatory coverage to compensate employees for work-related injuries or occupational diseases.
- Fire, Burglary, and All Risks: Protecting commercial buildings, stock, machinery, and movable assets (like laptops and cameras) against fire, theft, and accidental damage.
- Money Insurance: Covering company money in transit, within locked safes, or with authorized staff.
Personal Accident Insurance
AMACO provides distinct Personal Accident covers, notably their Student Personal Accident Cover. This specific policy is designed for students starting internships or industrial attachments, offering a budget-friendly safety net against unexpected accidents.
Property Insurance
Their Domestic Package is a comprehensive home insurance solution that protects residential buildings and their contents against fire, theft, liabilities, and other perils.
AMACO Claims Process
To initiate a claim with AMACO, policyholders must notify the company immediately following an incident. For motor claims, standard documentation generally includes a duly filled claim form, a police abstract, a copy of the driver's license, and an inspection report from an authorized assessor.
While AMACO maintains internal service level agreements, specific claims turnaround times and exact settlement ratios are not publicly published. Customers should ensure all requested documentation is provided promptly to avoid delays.
AMACO Customer Service
AMACO operates via its headquarters in Nairobi and maintains a network of regional branches to serve its clientele. Customers can also interact with the company through their digital channels, including their official website, where inquiries and applications for covers like travel insurance can be initiated online.
AMACO Branches and Contact Information
- Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya.
- Website: amaco.co.ke
- Branch Network: AMACO states it has a countrywide branch network to facilitate customer service and claims handling outside the capital.
What AMACO Does Well
- Targeted Student Covers: The Student Personal Accident cover is highly praised for being affordable and accessible, serving an often-overlooked demographic (students on attachment/internship).
- SME Focus: Their business packages provide flexible, bundled solutions (Fire, WIBA, Burglary) that allow small business owners to manage multiple risks under one provider.
- Motor Market Experience: As one of the long-standing general insurers, they have deep experience in underwriting both private and commercial motor risks.
Things to Consider Before Choosing AMACO
- No Medical or Life Products: Because AMACO does not hold a medical (Class 12) or life insurance license for 2026, consumers looking to bundle all their insurance needs (car, health, and life) under a single provider cannot do so here.
- Claims Transparency: Independent, publicly verifiable claims turnaround metrics are not readily available. Prospective customers should clarify the expected claims processing timelines with their agent before purchasing.
Who May Consider AMACO?
AMACO is a suitable choice for:
- Students on Attachment: Who need a quick, budget-friendly Personal Accident cover to meet university or employer requirements.
- SME Owners: Seeking straightforward WIBA, Fire, and Burglary packages.
- Motor Vehicle Owners: Commercial operators and private drivers looking for competitive motor insurance rates.
AMACO vs Other Insurance Companies in Kenya
When comparing AMACO to other general insurers, consumers should evaluate them based on premium competitiveness for motor and SME packages. While larger tier-one insurers might offer broader digital claims-tracking portals and bundle medical insurance, AMACO competes strongly on affordability and niche products like their student accident policies.
How to Get Insurance from AMACO
Customers can purchase policies directly by visiting any AMACO branch, applying online via their official website, or using a licensed insurance broker or agent.
GetCovered Kenya can help customers compare available general insurance options, including motor, WIBA, and personal accident plans, and obtain quotations from participating insurers to ensure you find the best coverage for your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AMACO licensed in Kenya? Yes, Africa Merchant Assurance Company Limited is licensed by the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) to underwrite general insurance business in 2026.
What insurance does AMACO offer?
AMACO offers general insurance products, including motor insurance, travel insurance, WIBA, domestic packages (home insurance), SME business insurance, and student personal accident covers.
Does AMACO offer medical insurance? No. According to the 2026 IRA licensing registry, AMACO is not authorized to underwrite medical insurance (Class 12).
Does AMACO offer life insurance?
No, AMACO is strictly a general insurer and does not offer long-term life assurance products.
Where is AMACO located in Kenya?
The company is headquartered in Nairobi and operates several branches countrywide.
Is AMACO suitable for students?
Yes, they offer a highly regarded Student Personal Accident cover that is specifically tailored for students going on internships or industrial attachments.