Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero Appointed as Deputy Managing Director and COO of Africa Re
Africa Re, the continent’s leading reinsurance institution, has confirmed the promotion of Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero to the role of Deputy Managing Director (DMD) and Chief Operating Officer (COO). His appointment follows the conclusion of a well-structured, year-long succession plan that began in July 2024, preparing for the retirement of his predecessor, Kenneth Edirin Napoleon Aghoghovbia.
Bichetero officially assumed the role on 1 July 2025, bringing with him over 20 years of in-depth experience in African reinsurance, most of it built within the Africa Re system.
Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero and Africa Re’s Thoughtful Succession Strategy
The promotion of Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero is part of Africa Re’s long-term strategic succession planning. The 12-month transition phase, initiated in July 2024, allowed for intensive knowledge transfer, shadowing, and operational immersion. This approach ensured that Bichetero was fully equipped to take over key leadership duties smoothly and effectively.
Elected on 1 July 2024, Bichetero spent a full year collaborating with outgoing COO Aghoghovbia, offering both continuity and stability during the transition into one of Africa Re’s most critical executive roles.
Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero: A Career Rooted in Africa Re
Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero joined Africa Re in June 2004 as an Underwriter in the Nairobi Regional Office. His upward trajectory within the organization has been defined by consistent performance and leadership, progressing through the following positions:
Senior Underwriter
Assistant Director – Technical Operations
Deputy Regional Director – Nairobi
Regional Director – Nairobi
His tenure across these roles has not only sharpened his technical expertise in underwriting and operational strategy but also enabled him to build enduring partnerships with clients, brokers, and regulators across East and Central Africa.
Academic and Professional Credentials of Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero
The professional journey of Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero is supported by a solid academic foundation with both African and global credentials. He earned his undergraduate degree from Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda—one of Africa’s premier academic institutions.
He furthered his studies at the United States International University (USIU) in Nairobi, Kenya, enhancing his regional academic perspective. On the international front, Bichetero holds a Diploma from the Chartered Insurance Institute (ACII) in London, a highly regarded qualification in the global insurance industry.
These credentials reflect not only his commitment to professional development but also his ability to bridge local insights with global standards.
A Ugandan Leader Elevating Africa Re’s Continental Footprint
As a Ugandan national, Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero brings regional diversity to the executive leadership of Africa Re. His elevation aligns with the organization’s pan-African ownership and operational footprint, which spans African states, insurance providers, and development finance institutions.
Bichetero’s East African background is expected to strengthen Africa Re’s responsiveness in its growth markets, especially in navigating regional dynamics and building trust among stakeholders.
Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero to Lead Operations in a Dynamic Insurance Landscape
Bichetero assumes his new role at a time of significant transformation in the African reinsurance industry. From climate-driven losses and regulatory shifts to technological advancements and a rapidly evolving risk environment, Africa Re is operating in a more complex and competitive market than ever before.
As Deputy Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, Bichetero is tasked with leading the company’s technical operations, underwriting processes, and regional coordination, ensuring operational excellence across Africa and the Middle East.
He will also play a key role in aligning Africa Re’s service delivery with the evolving expectations of cedants, brokers, regulators, and shareholders.
Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero’s Appointment Signals Strategic Continuity
The decision to promote an internal candidate with nearly two decades of experience signals Africa Re’s emphasis on leadership continuity and institutional knowledge. With Bichetero at the helm of operations, the organization is well-positioned to maintain momentum while adapting to market changes and client needs.
His intimate understanding of Africa Re’s internal systems, corporate culture, and stakeholder relationships enables him to step confidently into his new responsibilities—ensuring strategic stability during an era of industry-wide change.
Conclusion: Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero to Guide Africa Re’s Next Chapter
The promotion of Ephraim Kiiza Bichetero as Deputy Managing Director and Director of Operations marks the beginning of a new chapter for Africa Re—one characterized by seasoned leadership, regional expertise, and a steadfast commitment to service excellence.
With over 20 years of institutional experience, world-class credentials, and a strategic mindset, Bichetero’s appointment reinforces Africa Re’s role as a leading reinsurance provider committed to growth, innovation, and resilience across the African continent.
