Guinea Insurance

Specialist Guinea insurance will be required if you have to visit this beautiful yet potentially volatile West African country. Though tragically caught up in the Ebola outbreak in 2014, Guinea was declared free of the disease in 2016, but has had some minor outbreaks since. The risk of terrorism, poor health facilities, hazardous road travel and political instability, mean that Guinea insurance needs to be robust.

Potential dangers in Guinea

Although endowed with astonishing scenery and rich mineral wealth, decades of repression and economic mismanagement have kept Guinea one of the poorest countries in West Africa. A history of political unrest, corruption, lawlessness and violent crime can make it a dangerous prospect. There is also a threat of terrorism targeted on places frequented by foreign nationals.

A political coup in 2021 means that the business and social backdrop can be unpredictable. If you are investing here or managing and import/export business, Trade and Political Risk insurance is highly recommended. Since healthcare facilities are sparse, medical emergencies need to be evacuated by air ambulance to a country with appropriate care. Medical Evacuation insurance in Guinea should be high on your list of precautions.

The Ebola outbreak of 2014 claimed 100s of lives and, though there have been a few cases since 2016, anyone living or visiting Guinea should keep up to date with the local situation and follow advice from the National Travel Health Network Centre and FCDO.

Armed muggings, even in broad daylight, can occur, often carried out by people in military uniforms. Foreigners can be especially vulnerable to corruption and extortion, and the airport, markets, hotels and restaurants are favoured places of attack. In the event of robbery, or worse, be warned that the authorities may be of little help since corruption seems endemic in every institution.

The border areas with Sierra Leone, Liberia and Cote d’Ivoire can be tense due to violent ethnic and cross-border tensions. There have also been incidents of piracy in Guinea waters. Maritime Security cover should be a consideration if you are operating offshore.