SanlamAllianz Life Insurance launches ‘Ako Kanya’ USSD service to enable instant access to savings

SanlamAllianz Life Insurance Plc on Tuesday, December 16, unveiled Ako Kanya, a new mobile-based service designed to transform how customers access their long-term savings and insurance services. Accessible via the USSD code *633#, the service allows policyholders to withdraw savings instantly, check balances, view policy details and manage contributions on any mobile phone, without the need for internet connectivity. The innovation addresses long-standing customer challenges related to delays, paperwork and frequent visits to physical branches. By prioritizing speed, simplicity and accessibility, Ako Kanya aims to deepen financial inclusion while aligning insurance services with Rwanda’s digital transformation agenda. ALSO READ: FEATURED: Sanlam renews its vows to its clients Speaking at the launch, SanlamAllianz Life Insurance Plc Chief Executive Officer, Jean Chrysostome Hodari, described Ako Kanya as a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to transform the customer journey in life insurance and long-term savings. “The purpose of Ako Kanya is customer journey transformation,” Hodari said.“For years, customers waited up to a month to access their savings. We moved from one month to two weeks, then to a few days, and today they can access their money instantly.” He noted that beyond convenience, the service is also expected to support business growth and deepen insurance penetration across the country. “Making access to funds easy and affordable is a powerful tool for onboarding more customers. Time is money, and our customers are now saving time while gaining confidence in our products,” he said. ALSO READ: Sanlam, Allianz merge to create pan-African insurance giant Hodari explained that through Ako Kanya, customers can check the status of their policies, pay premiums or contributions, temporarily suspend payments when facing challenges, and access funds quickly when the need arises. “This solution fits perfectly within Rwanda’s national vision for financial inclusion and digital transformation,” he added. “It is a promise of convenience, transparency and empowerment. Our customers no longer need to visit a branch or wait days for a withdrawal. This is their money, and they have the right to access it with freedom and dignity.” He further noted that the service aligns with the National Bank of Rwanda’s ambition for a cashless and digitally enabled economy. SanlamAllianz Life Insurance Plc is the country’s leading provider of life insurance and savings solutions and operates as part of the global SanlamAllianz Group. The company focuses on long-term financial protection, savings and investment products that enable individuals, families and businesses to plan confidently for the future. Through continuous innovation, it seeks to strengthen financial security while placing customers at the centre of service delivery. Chairman of the Board of Directors, Sebuhuzu Gisanabagabo, said the launch of Ako Kanya reflects the board’s strategic commitment to innovation, customer empowerment and operational excellence. ALSO READ: FEATURED: Bank of Africa-Rwanda, SanlamAllianz launch new product for easier vehicle insurance premiums He noted that sustained investment in digital capabilities is critical to creating long-term value for customers, shareholders and the Rwandan economy. “Ako Kanya is a solution developed with a strong focus on customer needs,” Gisanabagabo said. “It recognises the importance of quick and convenient access to savings, without paperwork, delays or unnecessary barriers. This is a powerful step towards making long-term savings more relevant and responsive to modern Rwandan customers.” He reaffirmed the board’s commitment to building a financial institution anchored in trust, transparency and innovation, adding that Ako Kanya marks the beginning of further digital advancements aimed at strengthening customer confidence and financial well-being. The Guest of Honour at the launch, Bernard Nsengiyumva, Executive Director for Financial Stability at the National Bank of Rwanda, commended SanlamAllianz for advancing customer-centric financial services. He noted that innovations such as Ako Kanya are particularly important in a sector where insurance penetration remains low and product offerings have traditionally been limited. “This initiative demonstrates how technology can bridge gaps and bring financial services closer to everyone,” Nsengiyumva said. “It is simple, accessible and does not require internet connectivity, which means even those without smartphones can save and manage their finances independently.” He emphasised that financial inclusion goes beyond access to services alone. “It is about choice, empowerment and trust. When customers have real-time access to their savings, we move closer to a financial system that truly works for everyone,” he said, encouraging continued investment in responsible and inclusive digital innovation across the financial sector. Through Ako Kanya, SanlamAllianz customers can now manage their savings and insurance services securely and efficiently. The company says the service is part of a broader digital strategy aimed at improving operational efficiency, strengthening customer service delivery and reinforcing its position as a trusted financial partner for Rwandans.

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SanlamAllianz Life Insurance launches ‘Ako Kanya’ USSD service to enable instant access to savings