APA SHEild LAUNCH

Speech by: Catherine Karimi, CEO, APA Life Assurance Limited

Today, we gather here to celebrate an extraordinary initiative that holds the promise of reshaping the lives of women in Kenya.? It is an initiative that goes beyond the ordinary, reaching into the hearts and minds of our sisters, mothers and daughters and it is called the APA SHEild Programme.

Through APA SHEild, women in Kenya are now given the empowerment of a holistic approach to their well-being and financial protection. ?It is a programme designed to cater to their unique needs, understanding that well-being encompasses more than just healthcare and wellness. ?It offers women a comprehensive range of products, services and solutions which are tailored to their needs, a supportive community, and a team of experienced professionals, financial education and an impressive array of benefits.

But what truly sets APA SHEild apart is its unwavering commitment to empowering women through knowledge and financial education. ?This programme is about equipping women with the tools they need to take charge of their own lives and secure their futures.? It is about giving them the knowledge to make informed decisions and the confidence to stand up to life's challenges.

Our sisters and daughters may find themselves at different junctures in their lives, whether they are starting families, caring for elderly parents, pursuing careers, or establishing their own businesses. APA SHEild acknowledges these unique paths and offers a tailored made support system, understanding that one size does not fit all.

There are three unique solutions for every woman;

Health and Wellness SHEild

Wealth SHEild

Protection SHEild

Health and Wellness SHEild

Here in Kenya, women’s cancers are a significant contribution to critical illness and fatalities.? To address this pressing issue, we have introduced - Femina Plus powered by Yubuntu – an innovative product aimed at enhancing women’s access to cost-effective wellness solutions and healthcare protection.? Together with our partners YuBuntu -“Your Wellness.”?? This product not only grants access to crucial screening for breast and cervical cancers and HPV vaccinations but also extends protection through cash benefits in the case of a positive diagnosis for breast, cervical or ovarian cancer.

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Jamii Plus Health Cover is a premium family health insurance plan that provides superior benefits, including coverage for a wide network of hospitals and medical facilities, pre-existing and chronic diseases and a Chronic Disease Management Programme.? It offers coverage up to Ksh 10 million including maternity protection for both in-patient and out-patient expenses during pregnancy, childbirth, IVF, fertility treatments and Femina Plus cancer care.

Through workshops, webinars, Mums Clubs and a wealth of resources, APA Health and Wealth SHEild aims to empower women to become the architects of their own destinies.? It gives them the knowledge and the tools necessary to make choices that resonate with their dreams and aspirations.? It is about fostering financial independence, resilience and a sense of self-reliance that transcends generations.?

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Wealth SHEild

We believe that financial education is crucial for women's empowerment so we have created some financial products to cater to their needs specifically. ?The Money Market Fund, which is low risk and the element of guaranteed returns.? The deposit for the fund starts at only Kshs 1,000.

Akiba Haslisi has been designed to enable women to build a fund over a period of time and allows them to have access to this fund at specified times to enable them to meet their financial obligations. This plan also offers a life cover.

Protection SHEild

Protection SHEild is a comprehensive initiative that encompasses various aspects to protect women.? It is designed to empower women with educational plans, motor insurance and ensure their financial security through pension plans. ?It also provides access to exclusive perks and discounts on a range of services including APA Rescue, a customised emergency response solution.

APA SHEild is more than just a programme; it is a promise of positive transformation.? It is a commitment to improving the overall well-being and livelihoods of women in Kenya, which, in turn, contributes to our nation's social and economic development.? When women thrive, families flourish, communities prosper and the entire country reaps the benefits.

In a world where gender equality and women's empowerment are of paramount importance, APA SHEild is a shining example of how collaboration between the private and public sectors can bring about meaningful change. ?It is a testament to the belief that the progress of any nation is inextricably linked to the progress of its women.

In closing, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my team at APA Apollo, IFC team especial Nancy, Fatim and Fatou, the team at ARK who developed Femina plus Powered by YuBuntu and everyone involved in making APA SHEild a reality.

Your dedication to improving the lives of Kenyan women is not just commendable; it's inspirational. ?Together, we can ensure that the future is brighter and more equitable for all.

Let APA SHEild Programme be a beacon of hope, a symbol of empowerment and a promise of a brighter tomorrow for the women of Kenya.

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