Financial Times ranks Turaco among Africa’s fastest growing companies

The recognition comes as the company continues to expand access to insurance among underserved communities across Africa and beyond. Turaco currently insures more than five million people, with the company saying that 75 per cent of its customers are first-time insurance holders. More than half of those insured are women.

According to the ranking, Turaco’s revenue grew fivefold over the three-year assessment period, rising from KSh189 million (USD1.47 million) to KSh963 million (USD7.46 million).

Kenya emerged second overall in Africa with 17 companies featured on the list, behind South Africa and ahead of Nigeria, Mauritius and Tunisia. Other Kenyan firms recognised in the 2026 rankings include General Printers, M-KOPA, Kenya Airways, Sun King, KCB Group, Quickmart, Naivas and Co-operative Bank of Kenya.

Founded in 2018, Turaco operates in six African markets — Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia and Tanzania — and recently expanded into South Asia through Pakistan.

The company distributes insurance products through partnerships with fintech firms, banks, telecommunications companies and other institutions, allowing customers to access cover through services they already use. Premiums start from as low as USD0.50.

Turaco also relies heavily on digital systems for onboarding and claims processing, including the use of WhatsApp and artificial intelligence-powered claims assessment. The company says its median claims turnaround time currently stands at four hours.

Turaco Chief Executive Officer Ted Pantone said the recognition reflects the company’s efforts to expand insurance access to consumers who have historically been excluded from traditional cover.

“Our mission has always been to protect emerging consumers across Africa and beyond through the partners who enable us to serve those consumers,” he said.