By Eddah Waithaka
Octagon Africa Financial Services Limited, a leading financial services provider in East and Southern Africa, marks 18 years of empowering individuals and businesses with innovative pension, insurance, actuarial, and training solutions.
Since its founding in 2007, Octagon Africa has expanded into Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia, with plans to grow further across the continent.
In partnership with Alexforbes Financial Services Limited, a top South African financial services firm, Octagon Africa has built a reputation for trust, expertise, and client-focused solutions.
Fred Waswa, Group CEO of Octagon Africa, says, “Celebrating 18 years is not just a milestone, it’s proof of the lives we’ve changed, the futures we’ve secured, and the trust we’ve earned. We’ve redefined financial security for thousands, ensuring dignity in retirement and peace of mind.”
Revolutionizing Retirement with the Octagon Umbrella Scheme
At the core of Octagon’s success is the Octagon Umbrella Retirement Benefit Scheme (OURBS), a game-changing pension solution for SMEs and organizations seeking affordable, high-performing retirement plans.
Since its registration with Kenya’s Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) in 2014, the scheme has delivered an impressive 13.8% return (as of 31 December 2024).
Structured as a defined contribution fund, it blends pension and provident features for flexibility and security.
Why Employers Choose Octagon’s Umbrella Scheme
Unlike traditional pension plans, Octagon’s model allows businesses with as few as three employees to offer retirement benefits without setting up a standalone fund.
Employers sign a customized deed of adherence, ensuring governance tailored to their needs while benefiting from pooled investments.
The scheme also helps employers contract out of NSSF Tier II contributions, fully compliant with RBA rules enabling employees to access higher returns and better benefits.
Employers can significantly reduce costs through bundled insurance and streamlined administration, while also benefiting from tax-efficient compensation planning that boosts staff morale, retention, and productivity.
At the same time, employees enjoy the flexibility to select from a range of investment portfolios ; Aggressive, Balanced, or Conservative. They also gain access to valuable tax benefits, financial literacy support, and vital protection for beneficiaries in case of death, disability, or emigration.
This comprehensive approach creates a win-win situation for both employers and employees, fostering a healthier, more
A Future-Focused Investment Approach
Octagon’s multi-manager strategy diversifies investments across three risk profiles; Aggressive, Balanced, and Conservative ensuring strong, risk-adjusted performance.
An independent corporate trustee oversees the scheme, guaranteeing transparency and compliance with RBA and KRA regulations.
“We don’t just administer funds, we manage futures,” says Waswa. “Our ecosystem combines technology, education, and investment expertise to empower members at every life stage.”
As Octagon Africa celebrates this milestone, it remains committed to expanding financial access across Africa through strategic partnerships, digital innovation, and evolving products.
“Our ambition is Pan-African, but our impact is personal,” concludes Waswa. “We’re building not just better pensions, but better lives.”
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