Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA): A Legacy of Compassion and Evolution

Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA) was established in 1894 and has a unique 130-year history of offering workers’ compensation services. RMA was first established to handle compensation for miners hurt while performing their duties, but it has since evolved and broadened its purview to better serve the South African and international workforce. RMA has developed into a vibrant company, motivated by a dedication to benefit workers throughout their life journey. Its primary objective is built on compassion and caring.

The Historical Background

When RMA was founded South Africa’s mining sector was only getting started and expanding quickly at the time. Three mining corporations joined forces to establish RMA after realising the necessity for a well-organized workers’ compensation system. This trailblazing action started a custom that has endured to this day.

The organisation’s first focus was on handling workers’ compensation claims for injuries suffered in the mining industry. Workers’ compensation laws were gradually established by the South African government, who eventually expanded coverage to all employees in 1993 after making it mandatory for all blue-collar workers in 1941.

Growth, diversification, and readiness for change

As the mining sector developed, so too was RMA’s desire to expand its product line. In order to manage workers’ compensation for the Iron, Metal, and Steel sector, RMA applied and received a license in 2015 to cover employees in that sector. The organisation’s size was essentially doubled as a result of this tactical choice, enabling it to service a wider range of workers and manage claims for 1.3 million lives.

The Amendment Bill to the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) was introduced by the South African government in 2020. Significant amendments were made by this bill, including inclusion of domestic workers in the coverage and provisions for rehabilitation. These modifications gave RMA the chance to improve its services and keep up with its goal of helping workers. The Business of Significance (BOS) Strategy was developed as a result.

The BOS Strategy

The BOS Strategy was conceptualised in 2020 and executed in phases. Phase one involved positioning RMA as a social insurer and forging strong collaborative partnerships. CEO Mandla Shezi and his leadership team worked tirelessly to unite employees around this vision and cultivate a high-performance culture.

Phase two, which is currently underway, focuses on expansion across all aspects of RMA’s business. The strategy emphasizes execution, operational excellence, and investment in additional capabilities. During this phase, RMA is set to expand its offerings, both in terms of products and its geographic footprint.

A Holistic Approach to Worker Well-being

RMA’s strategic posture represents a fundamental shift from a product-based organization to a provider of integrated and holistic solutions designed to benefit workers throughout their life journey. The group’s comprehensive risk and benefits offerings include:

• Riot Cover
• Comprehensive Group Personal Accident
• Critical Illness
• Disability Income
• COID International Cover
• Crime and Injury Commuting Journey Policy
• Classic Group Personal Accident
• Group Life Assurance
• Funeral Cover
• Augmentation Policy
• Commuting Journey Policy

Our COIDA Benefits:

Compensation for Death:

In the unfortunate event of an employee’s death due to a work-related accident, COIDA provides compensation to the employee’s dependents.

Compensation for Permanent Disablement:

When an employee is permanently disabled due to a work-related injury or illness

Compensation for Temporary Disablement:

Temporary disablement covers cases where an employee is unable to perform their regular duties due to a work-related injury or illness, but there is an expectation of full recovery.

Medical Aid:

Employees are entitled to receive benefits for medical expenses resulting from a work-related accident or illness.

Occupational Disease Compensation:

COIDA also extends benefits to employees who contract occupational diseases or diseases that arise from their employment. The type of benefits provided depends on the outcome of the disease, whether it results in death, permanent disablement, or temporary disablement.

The mission of RMA is still centred on the workers in all of these offers. The organisation is committed to ensuring that beneficiaries and their families receive the

treatment and payment they are due when they suffer occupational illnesses or injuries at work.

The rich and illustrious history of Rand Mutual Assurance is proof of its continuous dedication to South African workers. RMA has changed throughout the years to meet the demands of the workforce and the changing circumstances, from its beginnings in the mining industry to its current position as a provider of comprehensive solutions. The BOS Strategy will help RMA stay true to its basic values of compassion and care for workers across the country while positioning it for continued development and success.