Accra, Ghana: Mr. Michael Kofi Andoh, Acting Commissioner of the National Insurance Commission (NIC), emphasized the importance of prompt payment of cross-border accident claims under the ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance Scheme. He highlighted that proper reinsurance arrangements are crucial to ensuring timely settlements, especially as socio-economic activities in the region increase.

According to Ghana News Agency, significant advancements have been made in financing cross-border accident claims, particularly with the introduction of automatic Brown Card issuance, which has enhanced efficiency. However, he pointed out that there are still delays in transactions and compensations that need to be addressed.

During the 39th General Assembly Ordinary Session of the Council of Bureaux of the ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance Scheme, Mr. Andoh addressed cross-border insurers and stakeholders. The meeting focused on improving the reliability of insurance frameworks that facilitate the movement of people, goods, and services within the region. The ECOWAS Brown Card is a third-party motor insurance scheme across West Africa, designed to alleviate the burden of vehicular accident liabilities and promote regional vehicular movement.

Mr. Andoh urged motor underwriting companies to honor their obligations promptly and without discrimination, upholding the principles of equity and fairness. Mr. Henry Bukari, Chairman of the Ghana National Bureau, also spoke at the event, underscoring the ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance Scheme's role in regional integration and trade facilitation. He explained the function of national bureaus in coordinating claims across the sub-region.

Madam Mavis Boadi Nkansah, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, representing sector Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, called for increased public awareness of the benefits of the Brown Card. She acknowledged the scheme's past challenges, including delays in claim settlements and insufficient funding, but noted its overall success.

Mr. Winfred Kofi Dodzi, Secretary General of the ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance Scheme, assured that the scheme's claim payment process is efficient. He described a seamless transaction process between issuing and handling bureaus, resulting in prompt payments without hindrances.