TIRA advances efforts toward Universal Health Coverage

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) is ramping up efforts to expand insurance awareness and adoption nationwide, driven by the new Universal Health Insurance Act.

The Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) is intensifying efforts to promote insurance awareness nationwide, driven by the new Universal Health Insurance Act, which aims to ensure all Tanzanians have access to essential healthcare.

At the ongoing 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair, TIRA launched the ‘Insurance Village’ to engage the public and highlight insurance as a tool for financial protection.

TIRA’s Eastern Zone Manager, Zakaria Muyengi, stated the goal is to raise insurance awareness to 80 per cent and coverage to at least 50 per cent by 2030, up from the current 20–25 per cent.

The pavilion hosts experts from over 40 licensed insurance firms, offering consultations, education and assistance with claims and disputes.

“If anyone has a complaint or pending claim, this is the place to get help we even have an insurance ombudsman on-site,” said Muyengi.

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The CEO of the Tanzania Insurance Providers Association, Mr Elia Kajiba, urged citizens to take advantage of the Insurance Village, which offers claim follow-up, product education and conflict resolution.

“Insurance is a friend to society. It protects your health, property, business and livelihood from unexpected disasters. If you have a claim, this is the right place to seek resolution,” Kajiba said.

This year, TIRA is focusing on health insurance for all. The government plans to fund the Universal Health Insurance rollout through excise duties on spirits, soft drinks, cosmetics, and gambling, as outlined in the 2024 Finance Act

At the Insurance Village, several companies launched innovative products tailored for Tanzanians. TANZINDIA Assurance’s COO, Cyprian Fimbo, highlighted flexible payment plans to make general insurance accessible to low-income earners.

ICEA LION’s CEO, Mr Jared Awando, introduced a new Safari Plan covering hotel stays and personal belongings for tourists, meeting growing demand for tourism insurance.

Assemble Insurance Tanzania Ltd’s Managing Director, Tabia Masoud, unveiled Afya Pass, a health insurance product in partnership with Vodacom.

For just 70,000/- per year, Tanzanians can access medical services, including inpatient care, at over 600 facilities. She also launched Malkia Bima, a home insurance product targeting women-homeowners.

SUMA JKT Life Insurance’s Managing Director, Major Godson Mhando, clarified the difference between life and health insurance and emphasised that SUMA JKT’s services are open to all Tanzanians, not just military personnel. He noted positive public response.

“This is not just a military insurance company. We’re here for every Tanzanian seeking long-term protection for themselves and their families,” he said.

Mr Muyengi encouraged the public to use the fair to learn about insurance services, resolve claims, and improve their knowledge.

“Insurance is not a luxury; it is a necessity,” he concluded.