Nairobi | Jubilee Holdings has officially opened its new state-of-the-art headquarters in Nairobi’s Upper Hill, marking a major milestone for the 87-year-old insurance firm. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi led the opening ceremony on Wednesday, where he also paid tribute to former Chairman Nizar Juma, who retired in May 2024 after two decades at the helm.
“This new building is more than just a structure it is a statement of Jubilee’s continued presence and purpose,” Mudavadi said. He applauded the firm’s decision to invest in Nairobi, reinforcing the city’s role as East Africa’s top financial and logistics hub.
The new Grade A commercial property has been certified under the Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) program. The structure integrates solar energy, water harvesting systems, smart energy fixtures, and natural ventilation. The headquarters also includes staff-centered amenities such as a gym, game room, creche, therapeutic garden, jogging track, and green spaces.
“Such facilities not only boost productivity but also build a healthy, connected workforce,” Mudavadi said during his remarks.
Jubilee Holdings, which serves over 1.4 million policyholders across East Africa, holds a 9.7% share of Kenya’s insurance market. The company employs about 1,000 people and operates with support from 5,000 agents in the region. Its products cover asset management, health, and life insurance.
Mudavadi praised the firm’s contribution to Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage goals, citing its growing healthcare network and its position in supporting the public good through the Aga Khan Development Network.
The event also served as a celebration of Nizar Juma’s legacy. Under his chairmanship, Jubilee expanded regionally, restructured its operations by separating health, life, and general insurance arms, and adopted new technologies.
“Nizar Juma led with vision, resilience, and purpose. He laid a strong foundation that future leaders must build on,” said Mudavadi. “He didn’t just oversee growth he directed it.”
In his closing appeal, Mudavadi challenged the insurance sector to confront low coverage levels in Kenya. He pointed out that millions remain uninsured due to cost, access issues, or lack of awareness.
“You have a responsibility to reach those left out,” he said. “Embrace innovation especially AI and digital tools to scale up coverage and offer inclusive solutions.”
He concluded by invoking the legacy of the late His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, urging stakeholders to follow the path of inclusive progress.
Jubilee’s new headquarters now stands as a symbol of sustained growth and vision and a reminder that leadership rooted in ethics and foresight can shape industries for generations.
