Rwanda’s Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, together with the National Bank of Rwanda and ZEP-RE (PTA Reinsurance Company), unveiled inclusive insurance solutions for Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) at the International Conference on Inclusive Insurance 2026 in Kigali. The initiative aims to broaden access to insurance and protect cooperative members against climate risks. During a conference panel, Herbert Asiimwe, head of financial sector development at the ministry, reviewed progress and remaining gaps in Rwanda’s insurance market. Insurance coverage among adults has increased from 17% in 2020 to 27%, and sector assets have reached RWF 1.1 trillion. However, insurance penetration remains about 2%, with activity concentrated in cities and towns and many rural communities still unreached. The National Insurance Strategy 2026–2035 targets penetration of at least 5% by 2035. Priorities include expanding financial education and digital distribution, improving claims settlement and data use, and developing products that address climate and disaster risks. Local savings groups, particularly SACCOs, will serve as distribution channels, focusing on rural communities and sectors including agriculture and mining.

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