By Nasser Kayanja

The Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, has urged insurance brokerage firms to embrace honesty and transparency in their operations to build public confidence and increase uptake of insurance services, particularly in rural communities.

Mayiga made the remarks during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Werinde Insurance Brokerage Services and Nsambya Hospital at Bulange, Mengo, in Kampala. The partnership is intended to enable members of the Buganda community to access affordable healthcare through the Buganda Kingdom Werinde Health Insurance Policy.

He noted that although insurance services have the potential to benefit many Ugandans, particularly those in rural areas, public suspicion and a lack of transparency continue to undermine their popularity.

Mayiga criticised insurance providers for presenting clients with complicated agreements containing very small print, making it difficult for beneficiaries to understand the terms and conditions before signing.

He urged insurance companies and brokers to adopt fair and straightforward practices, ensuring that clients fully understand the policies they purchase and the benefits they are entitled to receive.

The Katikkiro also challenged medical practitioners to lead by example by practising the healthy lifestyles they recommend to their patients. He observed that some health professionals advise people to exercise regularly and eat moderately but fail to follow the same guidance in their personal lives.

He cautioned the public against excessive eating, emphasising the importance of healthy lifestyles in preventing diseases and maintaining good health.

Nsambya Hospital Board Chairman, Dr Katumba Ssentongo Ggabula, said the partnership with Werinde Insurance Brokerage Services was in line with the hospital’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible healthcare to communities in need.

He expressed optimism that the collaboration would expand access to medical services by enabling more people to benefit from affordable health insurance.