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Marine Insurance

Security for your investments, confidence in international and local trading.

Our Marine Insurance is designed to provide comprehensive protection for your merchandise during transit, ensuring that your investments are safeguarded against unforeseen events. Whether you’re shipping locally or internationally, our policies cover losses or damages from a variety of risks, including accidents, natural disasters, theft, and other interruptions that can occur while goods are en route to their destination.
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Coverages Designed For You

Goods in Transit (GIT)

Protects your cargo from loss or damage while in transit by land, sea, or air. Ideal for businesses that require a robust solution to shield their goods from common transit risks.

Hull Insurance

Covers physical damage to the ship or vessel itself, whether you own a small fishing boat or a large cargo ship. This is crucial for ensuring the operability and longevity of your marine assets.

Protection and Indemnity (P&I)

Provides liability coverage for maritime risks that might involve injury or loss of life, damage to cargo, or environmental damage due to pollution. It is essential for managing the legal and liability issues that can arise in the marine industry.

Cargo and Aviation Coverage

Provides comprehensive protection for goods transported via sea, air, and land. This policy covers loss or damage due to accidents, theft, or natural disasters, whether the cargo is being shipped by sea or transported by air. By combining coverage for both maritime and air freight under one policy, businesses can protect their goods throughout the entire journey, reducing financial risk and ensuring seamless protection from origin to destination.

Real Life Scenarios

Goods in Transit by Lake Kivu

A business owner in Gisenyi ships goods across Lake Kivu to Bukavu. During transit, the vessel encounters a storm, causing damage to the cargo. With Sonarwa General’s Marine Insurance, the business owner receives compensation for the damaged goods, ensuring financial continuity and client satisfaction.

International Shipping Mishap

A Rwandan coffee exporter ships a container of premium coffee to Europe, but the container is damaged at sea, compromising the cargo. The Goods in Transit (GIT) insurance covers the loss, ensuring that the exporter doesn’t suffer financially from events beyond their control.

Refrigerated Cargo Failure

A shipment of perishable goods from Kigali to Mombasa is at risk when the refrigeration unit on the container fails midway. Sonarwa General’s Marine Insurance includes coverage for equipment failure, allowing the shipper to claim for the value of the spoiled goods, thus mitigating the potential significant loss and maintaining the trust of their customers.

Detailed Benefits

Comprehensive Risk Coverage: Whether it’s damage due to weather conditions, piracy, or accidents during loading and unloading, our marine insurance covers a wide range of risks, giving you comprehensive protection. Customizable Policies: Tailor your coverage based on the specific risks associated with your maritime operations and cargo type, ensuring you pay only for the coverage you need.

Business Continuity: By covering losses or damages incurred during transit, marine insurance helps ensure that such events do not significantly disrupt your business operations or financial stability. Our experienced claims team works swiftly to process claims and provide compensations, helping you get back to business as usual with minimal downtime.

Legal and Financial Security: The liability cover in our P&I insurance protects you against legal claims, helping you handle potential lawsuits without bearing the entire financial burden yourself. Stay compliant with international shipping laws and regulations while gaining the confidence to expand your business into new markets without undue risk.

Protect your cargo, protect your business Contact Sonarwa General today for comprehensive marine insurance coverage.

A QUICK GUIDE

FAQ Questions

We cover a wide range of goods including agricultural products, electronics, machinery, and more, whether transported by land, air, or sea.

Ensuring your cargo is properly packed, choosing reliable transport routes, and maintaining a good claims history can help reduce premiums.

Our policies cover both theft and physical damage, ensuring comprehensive protection against a variety of risks during transit.

Get in Touch With Us

Get in Touch With Us

About Sonarwa

In 1975, SONARWA General Insurance was born, fueled by a vision to pioneer the insurance industry in Rwanda. Under the guidance of the UK’s J.H. Minet, we embarked on our journey with just 50 million Rwf in capital. Our early days were marked by ambition and determination, setting the stage for a legacy of resilience and growth. Over the years, our story has been one of strategic expansion and relentless dedication. From our initial steps, we launched 19 branches across Rwanda, bringing our services closer to the people and enhancing accessibility. Our capital grew to billions in Rwandan francs, reflecting our robust financial foundation. The acquisition by the Rwanda Social Security Board solidified our position as a trusted and stable provider in the market. We continuously evolve, rebrand, and redefine insurance to meet the changing needs of our clients. Our commitment is unwavering: to provide exceptional value, security, and peace of mind. As the leading capitalized insurance provider in Rwanda, regulated by the National Bank of Rwanda, we stand ready to help you confidently navigate life’s uncertainties. Our legacy is built on reliability, and our future is driven by innovation. At SONARWA General Insurance, we are not just a company; we are your steadfast partner, dedicated to safeguarding your future.
  • 1975: Founded and Pionnerd the Insurance Sector in Rwanda under the management of J.H. Minet (UK)
  • 1980: Capital increase from 50M Rwf to 400M Rwf
  • 1983: Capital increase to 500M Rwf; Expansion to Butare and Gisenyi
  • 2011: Structural change, splitting into SONARWA General Insurance (short-term) and SONARWA Life Insurance (long-term)
  • 2017: RSSB acquired an 84.67% majority share
  • 2024: Capital growth of billions Rwf; Established 19 branches across Rwanda and have multiple investments in Real Estate Mainly.
  • Leadership In The Market: Sonarwa Has Consistently Held A Strong Position In Rwanda’s Insurance Industry, Characterized By Substantial Growth In Gross Premiums And A Robust Solvency Margin.
  • Innovative Solutions: We Were Pioneers In Introducing Tailored Insurance Solutions Such As Crop And Engineering Insurance, Catering Specifically To The Unique Needs Of Rwanda’s Agricultural And Construction Sectors.
  • Community Impact: Beyond Business, We Have Engaged In Numerous Community Outreach And Development Programs, Affirming Our Commitment To Responsible Corporate Citizenship.
  • Economic Contribution: Through Our Operations, We Have Significantly Contributed To The Economic Growth Of Rwanda, Enhancing The Financial Stability And Productivity Of Both Individuals And Businesses.
  • Client Success Stories: From Small Businesses To Large Corporations, Our Insurance Products Have Played A Pivotal Role In Enabling Our Clients To Manage Risks Effectively And Thrive Amidst Challenges.
  • Awards And Recognition: Over The Years, Sonarwa Has Been Recognized By Various Industry Bodies For Its Excellence In Service Delivery, Innovation, And Contribution To The Insurance Sector.

What Is Our Vision?

“To solidify our leadership position in Rwanda while expanding our influence throughout the region as a premier provider of top-quality insurance products and financial services.”
  • Leadership in Rwanda: Why do we lead? We believe in setting standards, offering innovative solutions, and consistently addressing the evolving needs of our customers to stay at the forefront of the insurance industry.
  • Influence Beyond Borders: How do we impact the region? By extending our reach, sharing expertise, and fostering partnerships across borders, we aim to bring unparalleled value to a wider audience.
  • Commitment to Quality: What does quality mean to us? It's about excelling in every facet of our operation—from customer service and product innovation to efficient claim management—ensuring an exceptional experience for every client.
  • Customer Focus: How do we prioritize customers? By keeping the customer at the center of all our actions, constantly adapting our offerings to meet their specific needs and expectations.
  • Innovative Practices: How do we stay ahead? Innovation is key in our approach. We utilize the latest technologies and innovative methods to enhance our services and customer engagement.
  • Sustainable Success: What is our approach to sustainability? We aim for growth that respects both our community and environment, ensuring that our business success also contributes positively to society.

What Is Our Mission?

Our mission at SONARWA is to provide clients with affordable and reliable insurance and financial solutions, while enhancing economic growth in Rwanda and the region through productive investment activities.
Affordable and Reliable Solutions: How do we ensure affordability and reliability? By designing insurance products that are cost-effective and meet the diverse needs of our customers, ensuring that they receive value for money and trust in the reliability of our services. Enhancing Economic Growth: Through strategic investments in the local economy and by supporting sectors that have a significant impact on regional development. This not only helps in building a robust economic environment but also secures the future of our clients and their communities. Productive Investments: What investments do we make? We focus on investments that yield productive outcomes, such as infrastructure projects, small and medium-sized enterprise support, and other initiatives that lead to job creation and economic stability.
  • Client-Centric Service: How do we stay client-centric? By maintaining a sharp focus on customer satisfaction, we tailor our services to align with client expectations and needs, ensuring that they feel valued and understood.
  • Innovation in Financial Solutions: How do we innovate? We commit to leveraging the latest technologies and financial practices to enhance our product offerings and service delivery, staying ahead in a competitive market.
  • Community Engagement: How do we engage with the community? We actively participate in community development projects and initiatives that enhance the welfare of the communities we serve, reinforcing our commitment to social responsibility.
  • For Our Customers: Our mission ensures that you have access to insurance solutions that not only protect your assets but also contribute to your financial well-being and peace of mind.
  • For Our Partners: It offers a solid foundation for partnership based on shared values of growth, reliability, and community support.

Core values

Our core values are the guiding principles that shape every aspect of our operations and define our culture. They represent our unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and responsibility. Here’s a closer look at the values that drive us:
  • Specialization : We pride ourselves on our deep industry expertise, providing specialized insurance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.
  • Entrepreneurial Spirit : We embrace innovation and creativity, encouraging proactive and forward-thinking approaches to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.
  • Accountability: We take responsibility for our actions and decisions, ensuring we deliver on our promises and uphold our commitments.
  • Integrity : We uphold the highest standards of honesty and transparency in all our interactions, ensuring trust and credibility with our clients and partners.
  • Excellence: We strive for superior performance in all aspects of our business, continuously improving and innovating to exceed expectations.
  • Respect for Others : We value and respect the diverse perspectives of our clients, partners, and team members, fostering a culture of inclusion and mutual respect.
  • Discipline : We maintain a disciplined approach in our operations, adhering to best practices and regulatory requirements to ensure consistent and reliable service.
  • Clear & Open Communication : We prioritize open and transparent communication, ensuring all stakeholders are well-informed and engaged.
  • Customer Focus : We place our clients at the center of everything we do, dedicating ourselves to understanding and meeting their needs with personalized, responsive service.
  • Reliability : We are steadfast in our commitment to providing dependable and consistent service, ensuring our clients can rely on us in every situation.
  • Innovation : We embrace new ideas and technologies to stay ahead in the industry, constantly evolving to provide the best solutions for our clients.
  • Teamwork : We foster a collaborative and supportive work environment, recognizing that our success is built on the dedication, skills, and diverse perspectives of our team. Our employees are our greatest asset, working together to achieve our common goals and deliver exceptional value to our clients.
  • Family & Community : We are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees, their families, and the broader community, recognizing the importance of work-life balance and social responsibility.

Our Strategy

We strive to be at the forefront of the insurance industry in Rwanda and beyond, setting standards and providing services that protect and empower our clients and communities.
  • We start by deeply understanding the diverse needs of our clients across all segments—individuals, families, and businesses.
  • Our products and services are designed to meet these needs with precision and personalization, ensuring relevance and value.
  • We continuously invest in technology to enhance our service delivery, simplify processes, and ensure accessibility.
  • Developing new insurance products that cater to the evolving demands of our market, such as cyber insurance and environmental liability coverage.
  • We aim to expand our presence in the East African region, establishing a footprint that supports cross-border trade and mobility.
  • Actively participating in community development projects, we strengthen our bond with the communities we serve and enhance our brand's trust and loyalty.
  • Streamlining operations to reduce costs and improve response times, ensuring that our clients receive fast and efficient service.
  • Upholding the highest standards of service quality and customer satisfaction, monitored through regular feedback and rigorous quality control measures.
  • Integrating eco-friendly practices into our operations and promoting green insurance products to encourage environmental stewardship.
  • Investing in sustainable projects that contribute to economic stability in our markets, such as renewable energy and infrastructure development.

Corporate Governance

At SONARWA GENERAL INSURANCE COMPANY LTD, we are dedicated to shaping the future of insurance in Rwanda and expanding our influence throughout the COMESA region. Our governance framework emphasizes innovation in service delivery, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance our operational efficiency and customer engagement. We are poised to broaden our reach, making our high-quality insurance products more accessible.
Our commitment extends beyond growth; it encompasses a steadfast dedication to environmental and social governance principles, ensuring sustainable and responsible business practices. As we adapt to global insurance trends and evolving market demands, SONARWA remains focused on delivering exceptional value and reliability to our customers and shareholders.
By integrating global insights with local expertise, we aim to redefine the standards of excellence in the insurance industry, ensuring we are a trusted partner in safeguarding the future.

Our Story

  • Vision
  • Mission
  • Core values
  • Our Strategy
  • Corporate Governance
  • Our Branches & Agencies

About Sonarwa

Our Journey Is A Tale Of Resilience, Innovation, And Growth. Since Sonarwa’s Establishment In 2012, We Have Committed Ourselves To Delivering Exceptional Insurance Products And Services, Making A Significant Impact In Rwanda And The Region. Here, We Share Our History, Milestones, And The Path We’ve Charted Towards A Secure Future.
  • 2012: Sonarwa General Insurance Company Ltd Is Officially Licensed, Marking The Beginning Of Its Operations In Kigali, Rwanda.
  • Key Developments: Over The Years, Sonarwa Has Introduced A Range Of Insurance Products Designed To Meet The Diverse Needs Of Its Customers, Including Motor, Fire, Marine, And More Recently, Innovative Offerings In Engineering And Crop Insurance.
  • Growth And Expansion: Our Strategic Focus On Customer Satisfaction And Value Creation Has Seen Us Expand Our Presence Across Rwanda, With Multiple Branches Ensuring Accessibility And Convenience For Our Clients.
  • Leadership In The Market: Sonarwa Has Consistently Held A Strong Position In Rwanda’s Insurance Industry, Characterized By Substantial Growth In Gross Premiums And A Robust Solvency Margin.
  • Innovative Solutions: We Were Pioneers In Introducing Tailored Insurance Solutions Such As Crop And Engineering Insurance, Catering Specifically To The Unique Needs Of Rwanda’s Agricultural And Construction Sectors.
  • Community Impact: Beyond Business, We Have Engaged In Numerous Community Outreach And Development Programs, Affirming Our Commitment To Responsible Corporate Citizenship.
  • Economic Contribution: Through Our Operations, We Have Significantly Contributed To The Economic Growth Of Rwanda, Enhancing The Financial Stability And Productivity Of Both Individuals And Businesses.
  • Client Success Stories: From Small Businesses To Large Corporations, Our Insurance Products Have Played A Pivotal Role In Enabling Our Clients To Manage Risks Effectively And Thrive Amidst Challenges.
  • Awards And Recognition: Over The Years, Sonarwa Has Been Recognized By Various Industry Bodies For Its Excellence In Service Delivery, Innovation, And Contribution To The Insurance Sector.