2022 turned out to be another year of surprises both locally and globally. In February of this year, a startled world woke up to the news that Russia had begun an invasion of Ukraine. Many assumed it would be a matter of a week or two and Ukraine would succumb to the might of the Russian military: the war continues. In April, we experienced the aftermath of extremely high rainfall during a short space of time in KwaZulu-Natal, whilst we attended to the riot claims incurred in the province nine months earlier. We also eventually exited the Covid-19 lockdown phases, somewhat hesitantly and expectantly.
On the economic side, let’s just say that the year has continued to be challenging across a broad front. On the political side of things, we perhaps took a back seat to some of our more august trading partners whose prime ministers plied their short-lived trade on a revolving door policy. We too experienced some expected economic gaffes and the usual shock and horror as stories of corruption and incompetence unfolded.
Through this all, we continued to deliver a service to our clients across the spectrum, whether individuals, small, medium to large businesses or our major listed clients as well. In the past three to four years we have been tested to breaking point, project managing and assisting in settling billions of rands of both riot and flood claims alongside the Covid-19 and traditional fire, theft and accident claims. For these acts in particular, I doff my hat to the dedication of the Indwe management and staff – thank you!
It is clear to me that exponential change has been brought about by the events of the world, whether on the socio-economic side, environmental, technological, legal or global political spheres. These will bring about massive changes to our lives across the world and we, as an industry, will need to adapt quickly as they become a part of everyday life.
On the home front, Indwe’s transaction with Santam has been concluded and we embark on a new journey, buoyed by being able to partner with South Africa’s leading non-life insurance group. We trust this new stronger relationship will assist us in bringing better products and services to both our long-standing and new clients.
As we look to the year ahead, we are filled with both anticipation and trepidation but we are secure in the knowledge that we shall always strive to do our best for all of our stakeholders, whether they be our clients, our staff or our business partners.
We trust that you are all rested and invigorated following the festive season and December break, and we wish you all the best for the year ahead.
Best Regards
Peter Olyott
CEO Indwe