The Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations and Residents Trusts (ZNOART) has raised concern over what it describes as unfair and exploitative practices by funeral insurance companies, saying many Zimbabwean families are struggling under the burden of expensive funeral policies.
In a statement yesterday, the National Chairman of the Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations and Residents Trusts (ZNOART), Shepherd Shalvar Chikomba, said funeral policies were increasingly becoming a financial burden for low-income households already affected by the rising cost of living.
“Funeral policies were created to provide dignity, support and relief to families during times of bereavement. However, residents across the country continue to raise serious concerns over endless premium payments without clear maturity benefits, policy cancellations after short periods of non-payment, lack of transparency in terms and conditions, and rising funeral costs despite years of contributions,” said Chikomba.
He said aggressive marketing by some funeral insurance companies was targeting vulnerable communities and exposing residents to financial hardship.
“As residents, we believe funeral insurance must never become a lifelong financial trap. Funeral policies should offer peace of mind and not deepen household poverty,” he said.
Chikomba acknowledged recent efforts by the Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC) to improve consumer protection and address concerns surrounding perpetual premium payments, but said more action was still needed.
“Funeral insurance products must remain fair, affordable, transparent and people-centred. Residents who have contributed for many years should not lose all benefits because of temporary financial hardship,” he said.
He called on funeral assurance providers to clearly explain policy terms, waiting periods, exclusions, surrender values and payout structures in simple language that ordinary residents can understand.
ZNOART also urged authorities to strengthen regulation and oversight of funeral insurance companies to ensure policyholders are treated fairly and with dignity.
“Communities must be educated on the differences between funeral insurance, burial societies and life insurance so residents can make informed financial decisions,” Chikomba said.
He added that burial societies and community solidarity systems continued to play an important role in Zimbabwe’s social protection structures and should be supported.
“Death is a painful reality that every family eventually faces. No resident should be exploited in moments of grief,” he said.
Chikomba said ZNOART remained committed to advocating for policies and systems that protect residents’ rights, dignity and economic welfare across Zimbabwe.
He called upon IPEC and other stakeholders to act decisively in defence of residents and consumers.
