With generative AI [GenAI] transforming insurance. SAS, a global leader in data and AI is urging African insurers to put governance at the core of adoption to avoid costly trust gaps and compliance risks.
“AI is changing what’s possible in insurance, but governance can’t play catch-up. Trust must be built into every model and decision system from the start.” Says Itumeleng Nomlomo, Senior Business Solutions Manager at SAS South Africa.
SAS’s global experience shows the value of governance-first frameworks. For example, Polish insurer PZU worked with SAS to align compliance teams, data scientists, and executives under one governance model. They enable safe deployment of GenAI in customer services.
For African insurers, the stakes are even higher. Climate risk, digital fraud, and low insurance penetration demand responsible innovation. A recent SAS survey found that while 78% of insurance leaders see closing the $1.8 trillion protection gap as an ethical duty, many lack the technology and readiness to act.
To help, SAS launched the free AI Governance Map, which benchmarks insurers’ governance maturity and provides tailored recommendations. It also offers tools like AI “model cards,” audit features, and ethical guardrails within its SAS Viya platform.
As regulators tighten oversight and models like the EU AI Act gain ground, the organization argues that insurers who invest early in governance will earn trust, reduce fraud, and better serve customers.
“Insurance is about trust,” says Nomlomo. “As AI powers more claims and customer experiences, governance is not optional it’s the foundation of fairness, transparency, and long-term loyalty.”
