After nearly 16 years in Uganda’s insurance industry, Jude Okeya has built more than just a career—he has built a trusted brand, a strong reputation, and a loyal client base that spans across the country.
A sales professional at ICEA Lion Group, Okeya recently emerged as the Best Agent Retail Motor Comprehensive at the Insurers Association gala, while also finishing as runner-up in the Best Medical Retail category. The recognition has cemented his position among Uganda’s leading insurance sales professionals.
However, his journey to success was far from easy.
“I joined the insurance industry in 2010, and at the beginning it was extremely difficult,” Okeya recalls. “Penetrating the market was a real battle. It took persistence, consistency, and a genuine love for what I do.”
Unlike many professionals who pursue promotions into management roles, Okeya deliberately chose to remain in sales.
“I have declined several promotions because sales is what I truly love,” he says. “It is where my bread and butter is. For me, impact and results matter more than position.”
That decision has proven rewarding. Having worked exclusively with ICEA Lion Group since entering the industry, Okeya credits the company for playing a key role in his growth and consistency.
“They have supported me tremendously,” he says. “I am happy with the management, the administration, and the entire team. I feel valued here.”
His recent recognition came as a surprise. Okeya says he only learned about the award selection criteria on the day winners were announced, when evaluators explained the rigorous verification process used to assess performance.
“They visited companies, reviewed figures, checked systems, and confirmed performance data,” he explains. “From ICEA, I emerged as the top performer, and when compared with the rest of the industry, I became the overall winner.”
Okeya specializes in motor and medical insurance—two of the most competitive segments in Uganda’s insurance market.
Beyond products, he attributes his success to discipline and dedication.
“I wake up thinking about insurance and sleep thinking about insurance,” he says with a smile. “This is not just a job for me; it is part of who I am.”
That focus has helped him build a strong national presence.
“Today, my name is known in many organizations across Uganda. I receive calls from different parts of the country from clients looking specifically for me to present business solutions.”
Over the years, Okeya has also witnessed a major shift in public perception of insurance.
“When I started, the perception of insurance was very poor,” he says. “People were skeptical and hesitant. But over time, the market has matured.”
He notes that more Ugandans now understand the value of insurance, especially those who have seen real benefits from claims and coverage.
“The future is very bright,” he adds. “Insurance penetration is growing, and in the coming years, the industry will be even stronger.”
For Okeya, the award is more than personal recognition—it is a boost to his professional credibility.
“This recognition has expanded my visibility. My profile and achievements are now circulating widely across social media and industry platforms,” he says.
He adds that the impact on his business has been immediate.
“Clients now have confidence even before meeting me. They already know they are dealing with someone credible.”
Beyond the trophy, he says the greatest reward is increased trust and an expanded market reach.
As he reflects on his journey, Okeya expresses gratitude to the leadership at ICEA Lion Group, especially CEO Ambrose Kibuuka, whom he describes as supportive and accessible.
Looking back, his story offers a simple lesson for young professionals: success in sales is built on patience, discipline, and consistency.
In a sector where trust is everything, Jude Okeya has spent nearly two decades steadily building his, and now the industry is taking notice.
