SanlamAllianz Kenya has appointed Jacqueline Karasha as Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 November 2026. She succeeds Dr. Nyamemba Patrick Tumbo, EBS, who will retire on 31 October 2026 after more than eight years at the helm of the insurer.Dr. Tumbo assumed the role in August 2018 and brings more than 35 years of experience in the insurance industry.
During his tenure, he oversaw a KSh 2.50 billion rights issue, debt restructuring, a period of financial recovery, and the group’s integration into the Sanlam-Allianz partnership. He also contributed to broader efforts to expand insurance access and policy coverage in Kenya and across Africa, and serves on the Leadership Council of SanlamAllianz Africa.
In a public announcement, the Sanlam Allianz board and management thanked Dr. Tumbo for his service and lasting contribution to the group, wishing him success in his future endeavours.
Karasha currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and Principal Officer of Sanlam Allianz Life Insurance (Kenya) Limited, a subsidiary with KSh 38.47 billion in assets.
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She brings more than 17 years of experience spanning leadership, sales and operations in the life insurance sector. At SanlamAllianz, she has led initiatives to improve distribution channels, advance digital adoption and build strategic partnerships aimed at long-term business sustainability.She holds a First Class Honours degree in Actuarial Science from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and is a graduate of the Senior Leadership Development Programme at Stellenbosch Business School.
Karasha is also a Fellow of the Life Management Institute, an Associate Member of the Insurance Institute of Kenya, and holds an Underwriting Skills Certificate from Hannover Re.In her current role, she has focused on accelerating growth, strengthening the company’s position in the life insurance market and enhancing shareholder value through improved customer experience and innovation.
As part of the leadership transition, the group plans to absorb the life insurance subsidiary into its NSE-listed parent.The board has welcomed Karasha’s appointment and expressed confidence in her ability to lead the group into its next phase.
