Ritah Mutesi Kabayiza-IBAU Chairperson
The newly elected leadership of the Insurance Brokers Association of Uganda (IBAU) has unveiled an ambitious reform agenda aimed at restoring insurance brokers’ influence in the industry, strengthening professional standards, and securing a permanent home for the association ahead of its 60th anniversary in 2027.
According to IBAU Chairperson Ritah Mutesi Kabayiza, the new board, which marked its first 30 days in office, has already embarked on strategic partnerships and governance reforms to reposition the association.
“Our mantra is collaboration and partnerships. The board you elected is busy. We are committed to serving our members and ensuring insurance brokers regain their rightful position as the preferred distribution channel for insurance,” Mutesa said.
As part of its first month’s achievements, the board has held meetings with the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) and scheduled quarterly engagements with the regulator to address industry concerns and strengthen cooperation.
The association has also lined up meetings with the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) and the Uganda Bankers Association (UBA) as part of efforts to expand partnerships that will benefit members.
One of the board’s major priorities is to rebuild brokers’ market share, which has declined significantly over the years.
“When I joined the industry, brokers controlled about 70 percent of the insurance market. Today that figure has dropped to around 30 percent. We see this not as a setback but as an opportunity to grow,” Mutesi said.
She attributed the decline partly to low insurance penetration in Uganda and emphasized the need for aggressive public awareness campaigns, including communicating insurance information in local languages.
“We want every Ugandan to understand the value of insurance and know that brokers are the best professional advisers when purchasing insurance products,” she added.
The board also announced plans to improve members’ welfare by introducing a group medical insurance scheme and funeral cover for all registered brokers. According to Mutesi, the initiative is intended to make quality healthcare and social protection more affordable, especially for smaller brokerage firms.
Professional development will also be a key focus, with regular capacity-building programmes designed to enhance brokers’ skills, professionalism, and public image.
“We want insurance brokers to be respected professionals wherever they go. The way we dress, communicate and conduct business should reflect the value we bring to the industry,” she said.
In a move to improve member engagement, the association plans to establish a hotline and email helpdesk to receive members’ concerns while conducting nationwide surveys to identify industry challenges and training needs.
The board has also appointed a conference coordinator to begin preparations for the 9th IBAU Annual Conference scheduled for April next year.
Another major milestone announced was the association’s plan to relocate to more suitable office premises in Kampala before eventually acquiring a permanent headquarters.
Mutesi said acquiring a permanent home is a key aspiration as the association prepares to celebrate 60 years of existence in 2027.
“The home will not only serve as IBAU headquarters but also become a resource centre for insurance professionals and anyone interested in learning about insurance,” she said.
She called upon members, development partners and industry stakeholders to support the initiative financially and through partnerships.
Looking ahead, Mutesi said the government’s increased investment in agriculture, tourism, minerals and science and technology presents significant opportunities for brokers.
“The investments in these priority sectors will require insurance. This gives us an opportunity to develop innovative products, educate investors and expand the insurance market,” she noted.
She concluded by encouraging members to actively participate in the association’s activities, stressing that the success of IBAU depends on the collective efforts of all brokers.
“The greatness of this association is not in the board alone. It is in every member. Service to others leads to greatness, and together we can transform the insurance brokerage profession in Uganda,” she said. Ends… ///
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