“We’re investing in Africa, because we believe in the continent.” CFO SA encountered a lot of positivity about the growth of the African economy in the last week, but no testimony has been as outspoken as that of Delphine Maidou, CEO of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) in South Africa. And no testimony has been so significant – who else but a professional risk insurer with a worldwide footprint is better qualified to judge the economic prospects of Africa?
Although Allianz has had a presence in Africa for years, mainly in support of the African operations of big multinationals, the company has made a serious move into the continent since last September. Headed by Maidou, who grew up in Burkina Faso and worked in Canada, AGCS now offers its services to an increasing number of South African and African clients. The operation in Johannesburg is growing quickly. This is not just an experiment by the multinational underwriter, Maidou assures CFO SA: "There is no way back."
Allianz offers property, financial lines, engineering, marine, liability and energy insurance from the South Africa office. The company also provides access to all complementary products and services of the Allianz Group - via its network in over 150 countries - as well as specialist risk consulting support.
In a frank interview Maidou explained their future plans and shares some insights into African trends with CFO SA's Melle Eijckelhoff. The full account of their conversation will be published on this website within the following weeks.
In the picture: Delphine Maidou (Allianz) and Melle Eijckelhoff (CFO SA).
If you would like to share your ideas with the CFO community, don't hesitate to get in touch with us to arrange an interview. Please contact Jurriën Morsch on [email protected].
