AIE2026: The Insurance Renaissance: Rebirth, Reinvent, Redefine
Thokozile Mahlangu, Chief Executive Officer, Insurance Institute of South Africa
“AIE2026 is positioned as a call to action for the industry to rethink traditional models, rebuild trust and relevance, and design solutions that are more inclusive, resilient and future-fit.”
The African Insurance Exchange (AIE2026) co-hosted by the Insurance Institute of South Africa (IISA) and The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) is set to take place in July, 2026 at Sun City. The 2026 conference is themed, the Insurance Renaissance: Rebirth, Reinvent and Redesign. Andrew Chinoperekwei, the editor of AIM had an exclusive with the IISA CEO, Thokozile Mahlangu to unpack the theme and how it relates to the industry.
“The theme “The Insurance Renaissance: Rebirth, Reinvent and Redesign” speaks to a defining moment for the African insurance industry. Across the continent, we are seeing rapid shifts in customer expectations, technology, climate and catastrophe risks, regulation, and emerging economic realities.
AIE2026 is positioned as a call to action for the industry to rethink traditional models, rebuild trust and relevance, and design solutions that are more inclusive, resilient and future-fit. The Renaissance concept reflects a period of transformation — where insurance does not simply recover from disruption, but emerges stronger, smarter and more responsive to Africa’s needs,” says Thokozile.
The exclusive further explored key topics that will be covered during the AIE2026 conference and how they relate to current trends and opportunities in the African insurance industry. Thokozile iterated that, the key themes and discussion areas aligns with real opportunities and risks facing African insurers;
“AIE2026 will spotlight practical, high-impact discussions aligned to the real opportunities and risks facing African insurers. Key themes will include:
- Innovation and digital transformation, including AI, data-driven underwriting, and the future of distribution,
- Inclusive insurance and closing the protection gap, especially for underserved communities and SMEs,
- Climate resilience and catastrophe risk, with a focus on sustainable solutions and risk mitigation,
- Customer trust and experience redesign, ensuring products are relevant transparent and value-driven,
- Talent, leadership and the future workforce, building skills for a rapidly evolving sector.”
“These themes reflect the industry’s need to modernise while remaining grounded in Africa’s unique market realities and growth potential.”
Thokozile emphasized the significance of not missing out on the premier insurance event in Africa as the platform offers a space to learn, collaborate and lead change within the African insurance industry;
“AIE2026 offers a unique platform where African insurance leaders, regulators, practitioners and partners come together to shape the future of the industry. It is more than a conference, it is a space to learn, collaborate, influence and lead change.
Delegates will gain access to cutting-edge insights, strategic thought leadership, and relevant conversations that support decision-making in a rapidly changing environment. AIE2026 also provides unmatched opportunities for networking, partnership building, and exposure to innovation across the insurance value chain.”
“For professionals committed to growth and impact, AIE2026 is the place to be.”
Join the AIE2026 in Sun City and be part of the Insurance Renaissance. Register, participate, and help shape an African insurance industry that is resilient, inclusive and built for the future. Register today, www.aie2026.com.
