Travel Insurance: MAPFRE and GFA Strengthen Their Alliance

MAPFRE, through its digital assistance brand MAWDY (MAPFRE Worldwide Digital Assistance), and its local partner, GFA Insurance, have announced a new phase in their collaboration. As international travel becomes increasingly popular, the need for travel protection is at the forefront. MAPFRE and GFA Insurance now offer travel insurance that includes expanded services.

The announcement was made during a masterclass focused on the travel insurance ecosystem, organized by MAPFRE and led by Ismael Nekoussou Traore, an international reinsurance expert sent from Madrid for the event. MAPFRE, a Spanish group present in over 100 countries, highlighted its experience in claims management and traveler assistance. When asked about the partnership with GFA Insurance, Ismael Nekoussou Traore reiterated MAPFRE's commitment to establishing a sustainable presence in Mauritius, referring to GFA as its exclusive partner in the region.

This renewed collaboration introduces several enhancements for policyholders. The first change addresses older travelers. Unlike many insurers who impose restrictions, the proposed plan allows coverage for individuals over 80 years old. This initiative aims to facilitate family or leisure travel for older individuals, who are often excluded from traditional insurance protections.

The second innovation involves quick access to medical advice, regardless of the insured's location. In cases of fever or symptoms requiring consultation, assistance connects the traveler with a doctor via video conference within about thirty minutes. If the condition is not severe, an electronic prescription can be issued, allowing for the purchase of medication on-site or delivery to the accommodation. This system aims to reduce urgent procedures in an unfamiliar country and provide remote care.

The coverage includes the most common unforeseen events during travel. More than half of the claims recorded are related to medical care, the costs of which can be significant abroad.

The insurance covers expenses related to non-chronic incidents or accidents, as well as situations such as lost luggage, flight delays or cancellations, and repatriation in the event of death.

For GFA Insurance, this initiative aims to make travel insurance more accessible and systematic. Its CEO, Abdel Ruhomutally, stated that additional products are already in development with MAPFRE to meet the evolving needs of Mauritian travelers.