In today’s Rwanda, as we strive for economic resilience, family stability, and inclusive development, we must confront a difficult truth: too many families remain vulnerable to life’s unexpected challenges. Whether it’s the sudden loss of a breadwinner, critical illness, or retrenchment that cuts off income, such events can threaten the progress that individuals and families work so hard to build. When protection is lacking, the impact is not just financial—it’s emotional, social, and generational. This is where life insurance becomes not just a financial product, but a lifeline. The Silent Guardian of Families Life insurance is often misunderstood. Many view it as a non-essential, only relevant when things go wrong. In reality, it’s a tool for love, a plan for the future, and a foundation for dignity. Life insurance ensures that even in the face of unexpected events, your children can continue school, your family can keep their home, and your legacy can live on. This is not just about policyholders—it’s about families. It’s about empowering people to take control of tomorrow, today. It’s for Everyone—Not Just the Wealthy One of the most persistent myths is that life insurance is only for high-income earners. At SONARWA Life, our mission has been to debunk that myth by creating products for all income levels. Whether you’re a market vendor, a boda-boda rider, a farmer, or a salaried worker, we’ve developed solutions that protect your future without burdening your present. For example, our Hamwe Nawe funeral policy for a monthly premium as little as Rwf 1000 this product offers families dignity and support during moments of loss, ensuring they don’t face financial strain while grieving. Meanwhile, products like our education endowment help parents plan ahead so that their children’s education is never disrupted, even if income is lost. We also offer flexible products like our family protection policy “Ishema ry’Umuryango” that combine life insurance with savings, so families can secure both protection and financial empowerment. We have even rolled out micro-insurance products to reach informal sector workers and cooperatives that traditional models often leave behind. These offerings are designed not just to respond to tragedy, but to promote stability, planning, and peace of mind across all stages of life. We believe everyone deserves peace of mind. A Call for a Cultural Shift In Rwanda, we have made tremendous progress in education, healthcare, and financial inclusion. But life insurance remains underutilized. Why? In part, it’s due to lack of awareness. People don’t see insurance as a necessity—until it’s too late. This is why SONARWA Life has led campaigns to bridge this gap. From our education awareness campaign to our community engagements, we’ve taken our message into towns, villages, markets, and schools. We’ve hosted roadshows, financial literacy events, and even community concerts like the one in Gicumbi—because sensitization must go where the people are. Insurance is not about fearing death. It’s about protecting life. Strengthening Rwanda, One Family at a Time The truth is simple: no sustainable development is possible without social protection. A parent with life insurance gives their child a better chance at uninterrupted education. An entrepreneur with insurance can take calculated risks and grow. A family with coverage can grieve without falling into poverty. Today as we mark Insurance Awareness Day, we invite every Rwandan to rethink their priorities. Start that conversation. Ask your insurer questions. Talk to your family. Take action. Because one policy can change everything. The author is the acting CEO of SONARWA Life Assurance Ltd. Isaie Muhoza has been with SONARWA Life Assurance Ltd since July 2019, when he joined the company as Finance Manager. He was appointed Chief Finance Officer (CFO) in July 2022, a role he had served in an acting capacity since February 2020. As of June 2025, Isaie has been serving as Acting Chief Executive Officer, continuing to steer the company with a strong focus on financial performance, operational efficiency, and strategic execution.
