Uganda’s Insurance Sector Pays Out UGX 800 Billion in Claims, Regulator Urges Public to Embrace Coverage
Uganda’s insurance industry has honoured claims worth more than UGX 800 billion in the past year, signalling a strong commitment to protecting policyholders, according to the Insurance Regulatory Authority of Uganda (IRA).
The figure represents nearly half of the UGX 1.8 trillion collected in premiums over the same period, a performance the regulator says should boost public confidence in the sector.
“The ultimate goal of why people insure is so that in the unfortunate event of a loss, they will be compensated,” said Dr. Ibrahim Kaddunabi Lubega, IRA’s Chief Executive Officer.
“If UGX 800 billion was paid out in claims, then clearly insurance is delivering on its promise.”
Dr. Kaddunabi shared the data during a high-level media workshop held at Fairway Hotel in Kampala under the theme “Bridging the Gap: Rethinking Insurance Reporting in Uganda.”
The event, organized by the Uganda Insurers Association (UIA), brought together media practitioners and industry leaders to discuss how improved reporting can enhance public understanding of insurance.
Despite the growing payouts, Uganda’s insurance penetration remains below 1%, a gap attributed to low awareness, mistrust, and limited product options—particularly for low-income earners.
Dr. Kaddunabi stressed that a strong regulatory framework now guarantees that valid claims are paid, urging Ugandans to take advantage.
“If you don’t have an insurance policy now, you only have yourself to blame. The regulator is here to ensure that your claims are paid. That is our role,” he said.
UIA Chairperson and Sanlam General Insurance CEO Ruth Namuli called on the media to help demystify insurance for the public.
“This is the beginning of a continuous engagement with the media. If we can simplify insurance information for the public, we can build trust and increase uptake,” she said.
Namuli reiterated the sector’s commitment to public education and expanding access to affordable, inclusive insurance products.
Industry leaders say that as Uganda’s economy grows and risks become more complex, insurance must evolve into a reliable safety net accessible not only to the affluent but to every Ugandan seeking financial protection.
