As Tanzania’s insurance industry continues to evolve, a shared vision is taking dhape – one that puts people at the centre of protection and resilience. From brokers, and regulators to innovators and development partners, stakeholders are joining hands to ensure that insurance is not just a product, but a promise of security and dignity for all. 
This spirit of collaboration was on full display at the in the 9th Annual Insurance Conference organized by the Tanzania Insurance Brokers Association (TIBA), under the theme “Bridging Gaps for a Resilient Future.” The UNDP was among the key partners participating in this year’s event, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening  Tanzania’s financial  resilience and inclusive growth. 

The Guest of Honour, Eng Zena Ahmed Said,  Chief Secretary and Secretary of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, commended the insurance fraternity for organizing a transformative gathering focused on practical solutions. She highlighted two pressing needs to expand access to insurance services for underserved populations and to invest in the skills of professionals who keep the sector running. “Insurance is a lifeline for resilience and progress,” she emphasised, “and we must ensure that no Tanzanian is left behind.” Her remarks set the tone for a day of thoughtful dialogue – a reminder that closing the insurance gap is not only an economic imperative but also a social one. 

Insurance as a promise

In his keynote address, Shigeki Komatsubara, UNDP Resident Representative, described insurance as a promise of protection, opportunity, and dignity. He reminded the audience that: “Insurance is not a luxury but a necessity — a vital tool for resilience, economic transformation, and social progress.” With Tanzania’s economy projected to double and its population to reach 100 million in the next 15 years, He highlighted the important role of brokers as architects of resilience – connecting individuals, businesses and communities to protection systems that allow them to recover and thrive. “Brokers are not just intermediaries," Komatsubara noted. “They are bridges of trust between insurers and the people they serve.”

From dialogue to action

Panel discussions throughout the conference brought together regulators, brokers and innovators in candid, solution-driven conversations. Moderated by Josephine Laswai, National Coordinator for the UNDP Insurance and Risk Financing Facility (IRFF), the sessions explored practical steps to strengthen the insurance ecosystem – from promoting self-regulation and ethical market conduct to leveraging digital tools and targeted training. Participants also underscored the importance of building inclusive insurance products tailored to needs of MSMEs, smallholder farmers, women and youth. By co-creating accessible solutions, the industry can unlock protection for millions currently outside the safety net.