A new report by the Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI) has raised alarm over the low number of insured schools in Kenya. The study shows that more than 85 per cent of primary and secondary schools do not have insurance cover. This gap leaves millions of learners, teachers, and valuable school property at risk.
Only 14% of Schools Insured
By the end of 2023, Kenya had 46,322 registered schools. Out of these, only 6,784 schools had non-motor insurance, representing just 14.6 per cent. The remaining 39,538 schools are uninsured against common risks such as fire, burglary, accidents, or liability claims.
Of the insured schools:
- 2,018 are primary schools
- 3,422 are secondary schools
- 1,344 could not be classified due to incomplete data
Limited Insurance Products
The report shows that uptake of key insurance products remains very low. For example:
- Fire and perils cover – 32 mentions
- Student accident cover – 29 mentions
- Burglary/theft cover – 27 mentions
- Public liability cover – 18 mentions
Other products like political violence, equipment, and fidelity guarantee had even fewer users.
Barriers to Insurance
Most schools lack basic safety facilities such as fire extinguishers, perimeter walls, and emergency exits. Many also do not keep proper asset registers or staff records, making it hard for insurers to assess risks.
In addition, school administrators have limited awareness of insurance products. Many assume that in case of a disaster, the government, parents, or donors will step in. Budget constraints in public schools also make it difficult to pay premiums.
Call for Joint Action
The report notes that there is no binding policy from the Ministry of Education requiring schools to buy insurance, despite existing safety guidelines.
To close this gap, AKI recommends:
- Awareness campaigns for school administrators
- Simplified and bundled insurance products
- Risk audits for schools
- Digital insurance platforms to reach rural areas
With school fires and accidents on the rise, experts warn that urgent action is needed to protect students and school property.
