Tanzanian insurers celebrate two decades of 'The Citizen', call for more online content

Dar es Salaam. As The Citizen marks its 20th anniversary on September 16, key stakeholders in the insurance industry have emphasised its pivotal role in creating economic opportunities for the industry.

They have also called for more frequent online updates to further expand its influence and reach.

Insurance, who talked with The Citizen in separate interviews, praised the newspaper as a valuable partner, noting its insightful analysis of industry performance.

Owned by Mwananchi Communications Limited (MCL), The Citizen is recognised for its deep, analytical coverage of the insurance sector.

Sanlam General Insurance Chief Executive Officer, Mr Khamis Suleiman, stated yesterday that while insurance news can be found in any newspaper, The Citizen consistently gives it priority and provides thorough analysis.

He noted that in previous years, some journalists would often confuse the roles of brokers, insurers, regulators, and bankers, among others.

However, through increased awareness, including the stories published by The Citizen over time, there has been significant progress in clarifying these distinctions, which has contributed to the expansion of the insurance market.

"It is good to see insurance news featured on the front pages of this newspaper, accompanied by in-depth analysis. You are doing an excellent job, and your efforts have significantly contributed to the industry's growth and heightened public awareness," he remarked.

Mr Suleiman added that the balanced analysis provided by The Citizen highlights which companies are performing well and which are falling short.

While many might prefer only favourable coverage, he emphasised that it is this critical analysis that drives improvement in the industry.

“We have also seen insurance stakeholders being given the platform to write opinion pieces, which helps maintain awareness of our business. However, there are areas for improvement. For instance, some court cases are decided in favour of insurance companies or clients, but the outcomes are not always well documented. We encourage more focus on this aspect,” he added.

According to him, there have been numerous cases of fraud, with individuals being taken to court and judgements rendered.

"We would like to see such news reported more frequently, as it can serve as a valuable lesson to those committing insurance fraud. Additionally, insurance companies would benefit from having their information analysed similarly to how banks are covered, as this would greatly aid in promoting the sector," he added.

For his part, Commissioner for Insurance, Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority Dr Baghayo Saqware commended The Citizen for its significant contributions to the sector.

He noted that the newspaper's analysis and coverage of various industry initiatives have effectively simplified the concept of insurance for the public.

“The articles and analyses published over time have made insurance more accessible to our people. We appreciate this effort. I would say The Citizen has done commendable work, and continued collaboration and engagement with the sector will be crucial,” he stated.

Dr Baghayo also highlighted the importance of focussing on agricultural insurance, health, and expanding coverage in oil and gas as key areas for future development.

“Looking ahead, digital solutions will be essential in our sector. It is important for viewers to understand cyber risks and how insurance can address these challenges through effective risk management,” he added.

Speaking to The Citizen yesterday, the chairperson of the Association of Tanzania Insurers (ATI) Technical Committee, Mr Jared Awando, said that the paper is seen as a genuine partner to the insurance industry.

He expressed a desire to see more reports on the financial sector, including insurance awareness, and requested additional online updates or breaking news, including short messages.

On the other hand, the Africa College of Insurance and Social Protection (ACISP) director of International Relations, Research, and Consultant, Dr Anselim Anselm, said The Citizen has provided factually analysed insurance information, which has improved public awareness of various insurance issues.

He said a column on insurance matters in every paper makes insurance literacy mainstream knowledge.

“Finding ways to make the digital version free and find alternative revenue streams, especially advertisements.”