Octagon Africa Financial Services Limited, a leading financial services provider in East and Southern Africa, is celebrating a major milestone: 18 years of delivering innovative and inclusive pension, insurance, actuarial, and training solutions across the continent.
Trusted partnerships and client-centric growth
Founded in 2007, Octagon Africa has grown its footprint beyond Kenya to Uganda and Zambia. Plans are underway to expand to other African markets. The firm has built a strong reputation for reliability and expertise, therefore, underpinned by a strategic partnership with South Africa’s Alexforbes Financial Services Limited.
“Celebrating 18 years is not just a milestone but a testament to the lives we have touched, the futures we have secured, and the trust we have earned,” said Fred Waswa, Group CEO of Octagon Africa. “Our journey has been more than just business; it is about impact, dignity in retirement, and peace of mind.”
Flexible, compliant, and high-performing
At the centre of its retirement offering is the Octagon Umbrella Retirement Benefit Scheme (OURBS). A high-performing pension solution designed for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and organisations seeking affordable, flexible retirement options. Registered by the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) in 2014, the scheme achieved a strong return of 13.8 % for the year ended December 31st, 2024.
Unlike traditional pension plans, the umbrella scheme enables even businesses with as few as three employees to provide retirement benefits without setting up standalone funds. Employers sign a deed of adherence with tailored rules. Thus, allowing them to gain access to pooled investments, lower costs, and custom governance frameworks.
Moreover, in line with the NSSF Act 2013, the OURBS structure also allows employers to contract out of Tier II contributions, redirecting them into the scheme for enhanced returns and personalised employee benefits, all while remaining fully compliant with RBA regulations.
Empowering employees at every life stage
Additionally, this scheme allows members to select investment portfolios that suit their financial goals and risk appetite, aggressive, balanced, or conservative. Also, while enjoying bundled insurance benefits, financial literacy support, and tax advantages. The fund is managed independently under an irrevocable trust. With oversight by a corporate trustee and full compliance with both the RBA and KRA regulations.
“We do not just administer funds. We manage futures,” Waswa said. “We have built an ecosystem that integrates technology, client education, investment expertise to empower members at every life stage.”
Through a multi-manager investment strategy, assets are diversified across three risk profiles to ensure strong, risk-adjusted returns. However, it’s guided by a robust investment policy reviewed every three years.
The scheme delivers tangible value to both employers and employees, boosting staff morale and productivity. Furthermore, ensures retirement dignity and financial security for thousands of individuals and their families.
As it celebrates its 18th anniversary. Octagon Africa reaffirms its Pan-African ambition to scale inclusive financial empowerment. Achieved through digital innovation, strategic partnerships, and client-focused product evolution.
“Our ambition is Pan-African. Our impact is deeply personal,” Waswa added. “We’re building not just better pensions but better lives.”