Insurtechs tearing up the insurance playbook

In recent years, insurtech companies have been challenging traditional insurers by using innovative technology to offer new types of insurance products that are more personalised and accessible. This has been particularly successful in attracting low-income earners and those in the informal sector who may have been excluded by traditional insurers. Insurtechs are using technology to design, distribute and pay claims, reducing distribution costs and reaching more customers. They are also offering micro-insurance products, such as health, personal accident and last expense insurance, which are tailored to the needs of specific customer segments. Additionally, insurtechs are partnering with established insurance companies to speed up the rollout of new products and improve accessibility. The use of technology has enabled insurtechs to tap into the increasing demand for insurance products in Kenya, where insurance penetration remains below three percent. By providing affordable, customised insurance options, insurtechs are helping to address the protection gap in the country and reshape the insurance industry.