The low insurance market penetration in Tanzania after libelization of the insurance sector

Insurance provides many benefits to society as a whole and it is the foundation store of its very economy. The level of development of the insurance sector has multiple effects on the development and properties of other sectors of the economy. However most of the developing countries are faced with a common problem of low level of development of insurance sector. The financial sector reforms in Tanzania initiated in the 1990s has had a positive effect on the growth of the insurance business in Tanzania. However despite this growth the insurance market penetration has remained very insignificant. The research sought to establish the causes for low insurance market penetration in Tanzania after liberalization of the financial sector. Data for this study was collected using structured questionnaires, secondary data, observation and interview. This study also used quantitative and qualitative methods of data analysis. Low level of insurance awareness, inadequate distribution channels, lack of product diversity and lack of advertising and sales promotion campaign account for the low insurance penetration in Tanzania. The study recommends that deliberate efforts should be taken to increase public awareness no insurance market and benefits that are expected to be attained or achieved. There is therefore the need for the industry to highlight what does.