NBM Unveils USSD-Based COMESA Yellow Card Verification Platform

By Mayamiko Phiri……..

The National Bureau of Malawi (NBM), under the Insurance Association of Malawi (IAM) and in partnership with the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), has launched a USSD-powered digital verification platform for the COMESA Yellow Card. This regional third-party motor vehicle insurance scheme facilitates seamless cross-border travel.

Speaking at the launch event held on Monday, June 24 in Blantyre, Dorothy Chapeyama Chief Executive Officer of Reunion Insurance Company Limited and President of the Insurance Association of Malawi—hailed the development as a major milestone.

“The launch of this USSD-based digital verification platform marks a significant step for Malawi, as it enables the country’s full participation in the COMESA Yellow Card scheme,” said Chapeyama.

“The Yellow Card serves as an extension of national insurance policies, providing third-party cover across the entire COMESA region.”

She further noted that the platform brings efficiency, convenience, and reliability to cross-border motor travel, allowing motorists to move freely within the region with peace of mind.

In his remarks, Calven Mutyavaviri, Chief Executive Officer of the Council of Bureaux Secretariat which administers the COMESA Yellow Card in 13 member countries emphasized the scheme’s importance in promoting trade and regional integration.

“The Yellow Card is helping to advance trade across the region. It’s also affordable, with relatively low premium rates,” he said.

The COMESA Yellow Card can now be verified through the USSD code 38410# on Airtel networks.

This platform allows stakeholders—including law enforcement officers and customs officials—to instantly verify the legitimacy of third-party insurance holders in real time.