Insurance Association highlights the impact of climate-related catastrophes

Loading player...
GUEST – Themba Palagangwe, SA Insurance Associations's General Manager: Governance and Transformation



Climate-related catastrophes such as floods and storms continue to exert a significant toll on both consumers and society at large, greatly affecting South Africa’s socio-economic landscape.



The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has observed a notable surge in weather-related insurance claims among its member companies for both property and motor insurance, underscoring the growing vulnerability of individuals and communities to climate change risks.



South Africa experienced severe weather events that resulted in more than 400 deaths and destruction of more than 12 000 homes in 2022. In KwaZulu-Natal, the floods were the most catastrophic natural disaster to hit South Africa in living memory, leading to billions of Rands in economic losses. According to the Western Cape government, at least R3.5 billion worth of infrastructure was destroyed in two major floods in June and September last year. Such devastating events have a huge impact on the well-being of communities.



In response to this escalating trend, SAIA remains committed to enhancing consumer awareness and promoting risk management frameworks. By advocating for the adoption of non-life insurance products and services as integral components of comprehensive risk mitigation measures, SAIA aims to empower individuals and households to navigate the evolving challenges posed by climate change.
8 Apr 2024 4PM English South Africa Business News · Investing

Other recent episodes

Why Women’s Financial Empowerment Is an Economic Multiplier

Women’s financial empowerment has the potential to drive economic growth, strengthen households and create lasting generational wealth. Kaya Biz speaks to Alexandra Nortier, Joint Head of Wealth Management at Investec Wealth & Investment International, about why Investec is backing the JSE SheInvests 2026 initiative, the barriers keeping women out of…
23 Jul 1PM 7 min

Affordable Diabetes Care Arrives in SA with Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk South Africa GM Sara Norcross explains the launch of the country’s only authorised copy of semaglutide, manufactured using the identical API, process and device as the originator — but at a more affordable price. We unpack what an authorised copy is, why SAHPRA registration matters, how the Acino…
23 Jul 1PM 14 min

SARB holds rates steady in July MPC – What It Means for You

Momentum economist Tshiamo Masike unpacks the SARB’s decision to pause, the upside inflation surprise, and the global factors driving the MPC’s decision. We explore how rising oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and weakening consumer confidence shaped the call — and what households, businesses and markets should expect next. A sharp, data‑driven…
23 Jul 1PM 14 min

PIC Board Exodus: Khaya Sithole on SA’s Biggest Asset Manager in Crisis

Six PIC directors have resigned, Treasury has begun steps to remove others, and whistleblower allegations of interference are mounting. Independent analyst Khaya Sithole breaks down the governance crisis unfolding at the Public Investment Corporation, what’s driving the board exodus, and what this means for the R2.5 trillion in assets the…
22 Jul 1PM 14 min

SA July MPC preview: Rates Outlook amid Hot Inflation

With inflation rising to 5.0%, fuel prices surging, and administered costs climbing, the SARB’s Monetary Policy Committee faces a tough call. Sanlam Investments economist Patrick Buthelezi unpacks today’s CPI print, the risks driving inflation, and what to expect from tomorrow’s MPC meeting. Essential listening for anyone watching interest rates and…
22 Jul 1PM 15 min