The Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) has intensified its nationwide sensitization campaign, taking its Bima Mashinani programme to Trans Nzoia County in an effort to strengthen public understanding of insurance and address persistent challenges in the sector.
The outreach, which brought together key stakeholders at the Kitale National Polytechnic, was led by IRA board director Immaculate Shamalla and began with a training forum for local media practitioners, followed by engagements with boda boda riders, matatu operators, business leaders, teachers’ unions and the provincial administration.
Kenya ranks third in Africa in the uptake of insurance products, behind Egypt, Morocco and South Africa with Nairobi leading nationally due to the concentration of insurance headquarters in the capital. Mombasa, Nakuru, and Kisumu follow closely in terms of insurance penetration.
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During the training, IRA Corporate Affairs Manager Joanne Wanjala and senior trainers Evans Kibagendi and Galgallo guided participants through the Authority’s mandate, consumer protection mechanisms, and dispute-resolution processes between insurers and policyholders. The team emphasised IRA’s ongoing efforts to simplify insurance language to make policies more accessible to ordinary consumers.
Kibagendi urged journalists to approach insurance reporting with accuracy and depth, noting that the public often relies on the media for clarity on complex issues. “It is not enough to see yourselves as mere messengers. You must have the facts surrounding the message,” he told the media.
He added that the Insurance Act continues to undergo amendments to keep pace with industry changes, and cautioned reporters against misrepresentation that could damage public trust in the sector.
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Shamalla said the Bima Mashinani programme aims to enhance public awareness on accountability within the insurance industry, promote consumer rights and ensure citizens can access regulated insurance services. She noted that different groups, such as matatu operators and business owners, require tailored knowledge on compliance, risk management and safeguarding investments.
She further observed that state corporations, though national entities, are accessible at the county level to support grassroots regulation and service delivery. Shamalla underscored the need for citizens to be informed, engaged and resilient so they can manage their economic ventures effectively.
IRA is expected to continue its countrywide sensitization drive as it works to strengthen confidence and transparency in Kenya’s insurance industry.
By Abisai Amugune
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