Zimre Holdings is stepping up its regional expansion strategy as the insurance group moves to strengthen its capital base, underwriting capacity and technology systems across its African operations.
In its unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2026, the group said it would continue pursuing opportunities in selected African markets under its “Great Africa Trek” strategy, while improving underwriting standards and diversifying its product offering.
The strategy comes as regional operations increased their contribution to the group’s insurance business, accounting for 49 percent of insurance contract revenue during the period, up from 46 percent a year earlier.
“Capital mobilisation remains a key priority as the group advances initiatives to strengthen the capital position and underwriting capacity of the reinsurance cluster,” board chair Desmond Matete said.
He said stronger capital would support regulatory compliance and allow the group to extend its regional footprint.
Zimre operates across Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia, with the group reporting differing economic conditions across the markets. The company said these conditions require disciplined capital allocation and a quicker response to emerging risks and opportunities.
The group is also investing in technology as part of the expansion programme.
Management plans to modernise core systems, automate processes and improve the connection between its data platforms.
“Technology is an important enabler of our strategy,” Matete said, adding that the investments were intended to simplify processes, contain costs and improve the speed and quality of decision-making.
The group is also strengthening its focus on climate-related risks, which it said were becoming increasingly important to underwriting and investment decisions.
Droughts, floods, fires and other extreme weather events can affect insurance claims, asset values and the resilience of clients and communities, prompting Zimre to examine opportunities in climate-risk advisory services, resilient infrastructure and insurance solutions.
The group is directing some of its property investment through Eagle REIT towards developments in Mazowe and Victoria Falls. The projects are expected to expand healthcare, hospitality, residential and commercial infrastructure while supporting employment and local economic activity.
Zimre also plans to strengthen sustainability reporting by improving the consistency and quality of data collected across the group.
Matete said the company would remain focused on building businesses capable of competing and growing over the long term.
“Our Great Africa Trek continues as we pursue opportunities in selected African markets,” he said.