University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
WITS Old Mutual Insure
Risk Lab
Advancing Risk Analytics Through Rigorous Research
A collaborative research laboratory driving solutions to complex challenges in climate, health, and insurance
About Us
Who We Are
The WITS Old Mutual Insure Risk Lab is a pioneering research laboratory established through a partnership between the University of the Witwatersrand's School of Statistics and Actuarial Science and Old Mutual Insure.
Our Mission
To solve complex risk problems facing African communities and industries through rigorous quantitative research. We develop methods that work in practice, not just in theory, and ensure our findings reach those who can use them.
Our Vision
An African-led research environment where local expertise shapes global standards in risk assessment. We aim to demonstrate that world-class quantitative research can emerge from and serve the continent.
Our Values
Rigour: methods that hold up to scrutiny. Transparency: open data, open code, clear communication. Collaboration: across disciplines, institutions, and sectors. Relevance: research that addresses real problems. Development: growing expertise at all career stages.
Research Focus
Our Research Areas
Our research spans a broad spectrum of statistical and actuarial disciplines, united by the goal of advancing quantitative risk assessment methodologies.
Climate Risk Modelling
Developing spatial and temporal models for extreme weather events,
seasonal forecasting, and climate-resilient insurance pricing across
African regions.
Health & Survival Analysis
Applying survival analysis and machine learning to infectious disease
dynamics, mortality modelling, and public health risk assessment.
Spatial Statistics
Using geostatistical methods for
environmental monitoring, wastewater surveillance, and regional risk mapping.