A microinsurance company has partnered with Mombasa Tuk-Tuk SACCOs to launch a welfare product tailored for tuk-tuk owners, drivers, and their families.
Birdview Microinsurance has introduced Maisha Poa, the first product of its kind in Mombasa, designed to make insurance more accessible and affordable to the tuk-tuk operators.
According to Acting CEO, John Paul Otieno, the firm’s entry into the insurance sector is aimed at delivering affordable products for the working class.
“We will provide medical insurance of up to Sh100,000, accident and rescue cover worth Sh100,000, and a last expense cover of Sh100,000. This ensures that if a driver or a family member passes away, they can be given a dignified send-off,” explained Otieno.
Drivers and owners will contribute Sh30 daily for the cover, with the company targeting over 18,000 tuk-tuk drivers in the port city.
“By introducing affordable daily premium options through innovative financing solutions, we aim to increase insurance penetration, provide dignity and security to drivers, and create a stronger, safer community,” Otieno added.
“If you look at the drivers, owners and their family members, we will probably be covering over 200,000 people through this initiative. This is a great step towards increasing insurance penetration.”
The micro insurance Director, Richard Muiru, said the drivers have been neglected in insurance coverage despite working long hours on roads, but lack medical insurance.
“When you’re here, we will look after your family. You don’t have to worry about paying medical bills for them because from the little money you earn, you’re capable of looking after the family well. You’re able to offer a decent medical cover for your family,” said the Director.
He reiterated that the insurance is affordable, accessible and responsive to technology. He further extolled the SACCOs for agreeing to work with their company.
Tuk-tuk drivers welcomed the introduction of the product that is tailor-made for them, as most of them are casual workers and face many challenges.
“The product fits the needs of drivers. Many drivers, after an accident, opt for contributions for burial expenses. The cover is affordable. We are happy to receive the firm. The cover is perfect for us,” said Ali Said, a tuk-tuk driver.
Obed Muruthi, Chairman of Zero Zero One Tuktuk SACCO, termed the entry of the firm as ‘an idea whose time has come’ as most of them lack insurance coverage.
He also disclosed that they have introduced a raft of measures to weed out thieves in the sector to ensure the safety of passengers.
“Paying Sh30 a day will not burden us as we get a daily income. In the last two months, we lost two drivers who were hospitalised but lacked insurance coverage, only relying on contributions,” said Benjamin Juma, Chairman of Mvita Tuktuk Drivers Association.
By Sadik Hassan
