NAIROBI, Kenya — Kuria Muchiru, the Group Board Chairman of Britam Holdings Plc, has died after a short illness, the company announced in a statement issued Thursday evening.
“The Board of Directors and Management of Britam Holdings PLC is saddened to announce the passing away of our Group Board Chairman, Mr. Kuria Muchiru, who passed away today, March 19, 2026, after a short illness,” the statement read.
Muchiru, a seasoned figure in Kenya’s financial sector, joined Britam in August 2021 as a Non-Executive Director. He was appointed Board Chairman in December the same year, taking over leadership at a critical period for the Nairobi-headquartered firm listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
During his tenure, he is credited with steering the company through a phase of strategic transformation and governance reform. Britam operates across seven African countries, offering services including life, health and general insurance, asset management, retirement planning, and property investment.
The company said Muchiru played a central role in strengthening governance structures and restoring stakeholder confidence, positioning the group for sustained growth in a competitive regional market.
“On behalf of the entire Britam family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with him. May God rest his soul in eternal peace,” the statement added.
Colleagues described him as a leader of integrity and wisdom, known for his measured approach to decision-making and commitment to institutional stability.
His leadership came at a time when financial services firms in Kenya faced heightened regulatory scrutiny and shifting market dynamics, requiring stronger governance and strategic clarity.
Muchiru was an alumnus of the University of Nairobi, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Statistics. He later qualified as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K), building a career that spanned more than four decades.
He began his professional journey in 1983 at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where he worked for about 35 years. At PwC, he rose to senior advisory roles, providing guidance to corporations, government institutions, and boards on financial management and governance.
After leaving the firm, Muchiru transitioned into boardroom leadership, serving as chairman of Kenya Wine Agencies Ltd and holding multiple non-executive directorships across sectors, including finance, hospitality, and investment.
Britam has not yet announced succession plans.
