Betts Insurance Company (BIC) was officially launched on Friday, September 18, 2026, at the Lagoonda Entertainment Complex in Aberdeen, Freetown. The ceremony highlighted the company’s technology-driven approach and commitment to strong governance. Senior government officials and private sector representatives, including the Minister of Trade and Industry and senior executives from banking and insurance companies, were present.
“BIC is second to none,” said Mr Claudius Bert-Williams, Chairman of the Board, stressing the company’s independence and reliance on clear oversight and strong governance structures. “Governance is fundamental,” he said, underlining the company’s dedication to merit and sound processes.
BIC will be offering a range of products designed for easy purchase and simple claims processing. Company materials list personal insurance, home and auto insurance, business policies available in minutes and personal accident coverage. Once we receive payment, we issue the policies, and customers can submit claims with photos, track each step of the claims process, and get payouts directly to their TBI wallet. BIC also said it would insure imported goods, emphasising that it believes imports into the country should be covered locally.
The company has launched multiple payment channels to enable timely policy purchases and claim settlements. Customers can pay using Orange Money, Africell Money or by bank transfer, with claims paid directly into their wallets.
BIC wants to do something different, make an impact, and leave a legacy in Sierra Leone and internationally, according to its Chief Executive Officer, Mr Alfred Akibo Betts. He spoke about the new normal of technology across industries and the private sector’s role in driving growth and supporting local business. People could get insurance in three minutes, Mr Betts said, emphasising speed and convenience. He also promised that the company would make decisions based on merit, not personality. He promised to learn from other businesses’ mistakes, but said “every business starts small” and every new chapter has to start somewhere.
Commissioner of Sierra Leone Insurance Company (SLICO) Mr Arthur Yaskey said the introduction of BIC was a testament to the sector’s innovation and commitment. SLICO, he said, will continue to provide oversight and work to ensure the industry operates ethically, contributing to a stronger market and promoting job creation for the youth. Mr Yaskey pointed out that insurance offers not only financial cover but also security and peace of mind, and plays a vital role in national economic stability. He challenged players in the sector to work together and “share businesses” to increase the industry’s contribution to national development and wished BIC success.
The launch event included a video, “In Conversation with the CEO: The Betts Group Journey,” a musical interlude, a presentation titled “Our People, Our Journey,” and a networking reception. Mrs Binta Akibo Betts served as Master of Ceremonies, while Ms Fatmata Binta Bah of BIC gave the vote of thanks.
