Ethiopia Insurance

It’s important to get the right level of Ethiopia insurance before you travel or begin operations here. Civil unrest, terrorist attacks, border disputes, poor infrastructure and healthcare can present problems. Any Ethiopia insurance plan you take out should include specialist cover for high risks areas.

Potential risks in Ethiopia

Africa’s oldest country is a land of dramatic varied landscapes and fascinating history, yet it is best known for the tragedy of its droughts, famines and war with Eritrea. Once regarded as one of Africa’s more stable states, it has suffered a high degree of civil unrest over recent years.

The FCDO advice is against travel to many of the country’s border areas due to on-going military activity, inter-tribal conflict and border disputes. The Eritrean border is particularly volatile, and the Somali, Sudanese and Kenyan borders are also very dangerous. The whole of Tigray regional state to the north and Gambella in western Ethiopia should also be avoided.

Workers and tourists have been targeted for kidnap in the north-east Somali region. Travel here is against FCDO advice so specialist Ethiopia insurance is necessary, possibly with kidnap and ransom cover included. If you are bidding for state contracts or making private sector investments, you should also consider Trade and Political Risk insurance.

The Somali based terrorist group, Al Shabaab, has indicated its intention to commit attacks on military and civilian targets. Political demonstrations can turn violent and should be avoided. Keep up to date with the local security situation and be prepared to leave the area if things deteriorate.

Although violent crime is relatively rare, petty theft and mugging is on the rise in Addis Ababa. The healthcare system is wholly inadequate by western standards and comprehensive international Medical insurance in Ethiopia is strongly advised and must include cover for emergency evacuation and repatriation.