More Than Insurance—180 Years of Standing by South Africans

eNCA

2 days ago

At Old Mutual, we know that life doesn't always go according to plan. When the unexpected happens, what matters most is having a partner you can trust. For the past 180 years, that's exactly what we've been to South Africans—a consistent, dependable presence in uncertain times.
From our very first policy issued in 1845 to paying out more than R14.7 billion in claims in 2024, we've stood firmly beside individuals, families, and communities, helping them protect what matters most. And as we mark this incredible milestone, our promise to support you remains as strong as ever.
Claims that Make a Difference
Take Delwin, for example. At just 29, his wife Marece was diagnosed with stage 3B lung cancer—just a month after taking out life and severe illness cover with Old Mutual. Despite the shock, she lived for more than two years and continued to care for her family. The cover enabled them to afford essential treatments, including an ±R800,000 surgery, which significantly eased their financial burden. Marece's story is a powerful reminder that illness can strike at any age—and that having the right cover, with the right advice, can make all the difference
' Our role is to help customers through tough moments—and we take that responsibility quite seriously,' says Kavir Ramjee, Head of Protection at Old Mutual.
In 2024, we saw clear trends in the claims landscape that show just how unpredictable life can be:
73% of severe illness claims were for the 'Big Four': cancer, coronary artery bypass graft, heart attacks and strokes. *
85%of disability claims came from customers aged between 30–60. More than half (51%) of disability income claims were for Musculo-skeletal disorders.
Most severe illness claims stemmed from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) —chronic conditions not caused by infection but influenced by the environment and lifestyle. While genetic risk factors can't be changed, we can reduce environmental risks like poor diet, inactivity, smoking and alcohol use.
To help you understand what others like you have faced—and how you can prepare—we've created the Old Mutual Claims Tool. It gives you the power to explore real claims data from people in your age group and gender, across death, disability, and illness, over. With this insight, you can make more informed decisions about the protection that truly matters to you.
These insights not only show how we support you, but they also highlight the importance of planning ahead and being financially prepared when life happens.
Why Financial Advice Matters More Than Ever
Our ability to pay billions in claims year after year isn't just about our financial strength. It's rooted in the quality of advice and the personalisation of each plan.
Choosing the right cover isn't one-size-fits-all. It depends on your life stage, your job, your goals, and your financial responsibilities. That's where our advisers come in.
At Old Mutual, advisers don't simply sell insurance. They help you understand your risk, tailor your plan, and choose the benefits that matter most, so that when life changes, your cover doesn't fall short.
With the right advice, and customised risk plan, you are not just buying cover -you're building security and peace of mind.
Recognised for Strength, Built for the Future
In 2024, Old Mutual was honoured to be:
News24 Long-Term Insurer of the Year, an award we received again in March of this year. *
Top 10 Brand Finance South Africa's Strongest brands across all sectors.*
These awards reflect what drives us most: serving customers well and building a more secure future for all.
The Next 180 Starts with You
We're incredibly proud of our legacy. But we're even more excited about what lies ahead.
We're investing in smarter technologies, more personalised support, and more accessible solutions to meet your needs—today and tomorrow.
Because at Old Mutual, we don't just sell cover. We build confidence. We help you protect what matters. And we're just getting started.
Old Mutual. A certain friend in uncertain times. That's our 180-year promise to you.
Speak to a trusted financial adviser today or visit www.omclaimstool.co.za to learn more about how we can help you protect your future.
Sources:
Old Mutual Claim Stats Report, 2025
Brand Finance South Africa 100, 2025