Insurance in Kenya: Tapping into a Market That's Still Growing

Even with all the campaigns and billboards, many Kenyans still feel like insurance is not meant for them. You'll hear a boda boda rider in Githurai say, "Hiyo ni ya watu wako na pesa." or a mama mboga in Meru joke that saving under the mattress is more reliable. Truth is, for a long time, insurance has felt distant — complicated, expensive, and sometimes frustrating.

But slowly, things are starting to shift. More people are beginning to ask questions, especially after going through emergencies where a little cover could have made a big difference. Whether it's for health, motor, or business protection, Kenyans are warming up to the idea that insurance is not just for the wealthy — it can actually help anyone get back on their feet when things go wrong.

What's helping this change is the presence of agents who take time to explain things in simple language. They understand local realities and help customers choose policies that make sense for their daily lives. Some even go the extra mile to follow up on claims and make sure you're not left in the dark.

We're not there yet but as trust grows, and as insurers become more transparent and accessible, insurance in Kenya has the potential to become something more people see as necessary, not optional.