The African Risk Capacity Limited (ARC Ltd.) has appointed David Maslo as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 8, 2026. This significant development comes as Africa faces escalating climate-related challenges. ARC Ltd., established as Africa's first development-focused parametric insurer, provides risk insurance and financing solutions for natural disasters to African governments and eligible entities. The organization operates as the insurance arm of the ARC Group, a specialized institution of the African Union.
David Maslo brings over two decades of senior leadership experience in Africa's insurance sectors and global markets. His background in climate and disaster risk financing, combined with a track record in institutional transformation and strategic growth, positions him to lead ARC Ltd. through its next phase of development. Previously, Maslo served as Interim Chief Executive Officer, steering the organization through a significant transformation period. Under his leadership, ARC Ltd. achieved its strongest annual financial performance since inception in 2025.
During his interim tenure, Maslo oversaw several landmark achievements, including the expansion of ARC Ltd's multi-peril offering with the introduction of sovereign flood insurance and the launch of its innovative Re-Takaful facility. The organization also accelerated its relocation to Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. These developments enhance ARC Ltd's capacity to serve African nations facing diverse and increasingly severe climate-related threats. The expansion of insurance products reflects the organization's commitment to addressing the continent's growing protection gap.
Lesotho has emerged as an active member state of the ARC Group, signing the establishment agreement in December 2019 as the 34th member state. The country has deepened its integration and leadership within the continental disaster-risk organization through high-level continental leadership, multi-million-dollar drought insurance payouts, and financial and policy commitments. Lesotho's experience with drought insurance payouts demonstrates the tangible benefits of parametric insurance in providing rapid financial support during crises.
Cecilia Akintomide, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of ARC Ltd., expressed confidence in Maslo's leadership, stating that ARC's ambition is to help close Africa's protection gap and make resilience a shared reality on the continent. Maslo articulated a clear vision for ARC Ltd's future direction, emphasizing collaboration with key stakeholders, including the African Union, development partners, and the ARC team. He highlighted his commitment to advancing the organization's transformation strategy and expanding innovative risk-financing solutions.
Maslo's priorities include building a stronger, more agile, and more impactful ARC Ltd. He aims to deepen trust, expand access to protection, mobilize new partnerships, and help ensure that African countries are better prepared for future risks. The appointment comes at a defining moment for Africa, as the continent faces increasing exposure to climate-related shocks, agriculture and food security challenges, and public health emergencies.
Since its inception, ARC Ltd. has provided coverage for over 160 million people across the continent and disbursed over $240 million in payouts to support early action and recovery. Under Maslo's leadership, ARC Ltd. will seek to accelerate its transformation and support governments with innovative insurance and risk-financing solutions. The organization's focus on parametric insurance offers a rapid and efficient mechanism for delivering financial support when disasters occur.
Key points
- David Maslo appointed as CEO of African Risk Capacity Ltd to drive climate resilience across Africa.
- Maslo aims to build a stronger, more agile, and more impactful ARC Ltd. to address Africa's growing protection gap.
- ARC Ltd. has provided coverage for over 160 million people and disbursed over $240 million in payouts since its inception.
