AXA Climate is playing a key role in the launch of the first climate insurance product designed to protect farmers in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Developed as part of the National Agricultural Development Program (PNDA), this initiative aims to modernize agriculture and mitigate the financial impact of extreme weather conditions. Supported by the DRC Ministry of Agriculture, the World Bank, and the Global Shield Solutions Platform, the insurance product will initially cover up to 300,000 farmers in the provinces of Kasaï, Kasaï-Central, and Kwilu.
A data-driven approach to agricultural protection
AXA Climate, in collaboration with national and international partners, led the technical development of the insurance model. The parametric insurance product relies on satellite rainfall data (TAMSAT and ERA5) to monitor droughts and excessive rainfall. When pre-set climate thresholds are exceeded, payouts are triggered automatically within hours, ensuring rapid financial assistance to affected farmers.
The insurance provides compensation of up to $100 per year per farm, covering 15% to 20% of a farmer’s annual income. This financial support enables farmers to purchase seeds and resume agricultural activities after climate-related disruptions.
Strengthening agricultural resilience in the DRC
Karina Whalley, Director of the Public Sector Department at AXA Climate, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting climate adaptation efforts: “We are honored to bring AXA Climate’s expertise to Congolese farmers. This achievement reflects the dedication of the DRC Ministry of Agriculture, the World Bank, and national insurers in building a resilient agricultural sector.”
With distribution led by Mayfair Insurance Congo SA and reinsurance provided by ZEP-Re, this initiative represents a major step in promoting climate resilience and financial security for farmers in the DRC.
