The Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) has ordered that all goods imported into Kenya must have local insurance cover before clearance, with the directive taking effect from July 1, 2026.
In a notice dated May 22, IRA said importers will be required to obtain marine cargo insurance from locally licensed firms and submit proof through a digital system linked to customs.
“Section 16A of the Marine Insurance Act CAP 390 Laws of Kenya, provides that any person with insurable interest in marine cargo shall place Marine Cargo Insurance cover with an insurer licensed under the Insurance Act CAP 487 Laws of Kenya,” read part of the notice.
IRA Orders Insurance Cover for All Imports
The authority said the requirement is based on the Marine Insurance Act, which requires anyone with an interest in cargo to take insurance cover from a locally licensed insurer.
IRA stated that this is further supported by the Insurance Act, which prohibits placing insurance with unlicensed firms without the Commissioner of Insurance’s approval.
To enforce compliance, the National Treasury guided the Authority to work with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Safaricom PLC to develop a digital platform integrated into the KRA Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS).
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“To ensure full compliance with the indicated legal provisions, the National Treasury guided the Authority to work together with the Kenya Revenue Authority and Safaricom PLC to come up with a digital platform that will integrate directly into the Kenya Revenue Authority’s Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS),” stated IRA.
The authority said that, effective July 1, 2026, all importers will be required to digitally obtain marine cargo insurance cover for their imports from insurers licensed under the Insurance Act before obtaining customs clearance.
A Digital Marine Cargo Insurance Certificate will be requested through insurers’ portals or other platforms connected to the IRA electronic system and the eCitizen payment gateway.
The processed digital certificate and premium payment confirmation will then be submitted electronically to the KRA Integrated Customs Management System.
Importers will also be required to have an active Import Declaration Form (IDF) before applying for digital insurance cover and to follow the procedures available on the IRA website.
About the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA)
The Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) is the government body responsible for overseeing the insurance sector in Kenya.
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The authority was established under the Insurance Act (Cap 487) to regulate and supervise insurance companies, brokers, agents, and other players, ensuring they operate in accordance with the law.
The IRA is also mandated to protect policyholders by ensuring insurers remain financially sound and able to meet their obligations.
In addition to enforcing industry regulations, the IRA plays a key role in promoting the growth and development of the insurance sector.
This includes encouraging innovation, improving access to insurance products, and raising public awareness on the importance of insurance.
The authority also advises the government on insurance policy matters and works with other institutions to strengthen compliance and transparency in the industry.
