ITC trainers and market vendors in Kalerwe market, Kampala
The Insurance Training College (ITC), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Insurance & Risk Finance Facility (IRFF) project, recently concluded the first module of the Inclusive Insurance Certification Programme. Held from May 12–16, 2025, the training aimed to build capacity for expanding insurance access to Uganda’s underserved communities.
The program commenced with two days dedicated to training Trainers of Trainees (ToTs), chosen to serve as future facilitators and advocates for inclusive insurance practices. These ToTs received essential knowledge and tools to craft and provide customer-focused insurance solutions, prioritizing the needs of low- and middle-income populations, along with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). On the third day, they stepped into their roles as facilitators, conducting sessions for a broader audience that included insurance professionals, regulators, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders in the sector.
Sulaiman Ddumba Ibrahim, the Academic Registrar of ITC, highlighted that the peer-led model used during the training enabled a more practical and relatable learning experience. He emphasized that understanding the mindset and everyday challenges of customers is essential in designing products that are simple, affordable, and accessible. This principle was explored further in discussions on the factors influencing insurance demand—particularly the importance of trust, value, and relevance to the lives of policyholders.
On the fourth day, participants carried out practical market research at Kalerwe Market, guided by Dr. Yeside Oyetayo, the programme’s Master Trainer. They engaged directly with local vendors to understand their daily challenges and perceptions of insurance. The interactions revealed a disconnect between existing insurance services and the needs of informal sector workers. This exercise gave participants valuable first-hand insight into the importance of designing inclusive insurance solutions grounded in the experiences of those they aim to serve.
The training ended with a certificate awarding ceremony, where the CEO of ITC, Saul Sseremba commended participants for their dedication and encouraged them to apply their knowledge to influence policy and advance inclusive insurance. He emphasised that, “through inclusive insurance, we are contributing towards increasing insurance penetration, building trust in the sector, and strengthening Uganda’s economic resilience by reaching underserved and previously excluded communities.”
“This programme is more than just a training, it is a shift in how we think about insurance in Uganda,” said Bran Atiku, the UNDP National Programme Coordinator. “Inclusive insurance is a foundation for resilience, especially for vulnerable communities and MSMEs facing economic and climate-related risks.” He noted that with its strong emphasis on customer-centric product design, risk assessment, regulation, and innovative delivery mechanisms, the programme directly responds to the real needs of Uganda’s population.
Over 50 practitioners from across the industry participated in the first module, including representatives from the Uganda Insurers Association (UIA), the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), and several insurance companies. Their involvement reflects a shared commitment to transforming the sector into one that is more inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the realities of everyday Ugandans.