Financial inclusion remains a key global priority, championed through the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and, in South Africa, advanced by the National Development Plan (NDP). As part of this broader agenda, the SAIA has played a leading role in driving financial inclusion within the non-life insurance sector.

Since 2004, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) has led an industry-driven Consumer Education (CE) programme through its Consumer Education Fund. The Fund offers financial education tailored to the non-life insurance sector, covering its products and services. Over the years, it has supported initiatives that raise consumer awareness, improve understanding, and empower South Africans to make well-informed financial decisions, thereby promoting financial inclusion.

In 2024, the Fund marked its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of impact with the successful implementation of the following initiatives:

• SAIA Radio Programme – Provides educational content to households and Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) through Motsweding FM and Gagasi FM, reaching an audience of over 4 million.
• Building Resilient Business (BRB) Programme – Equips SMMEs with practical risk management knowledge, reaching over 600 beneficiaries across several provinces.
• MoneyTime Financial Literacy Programme – Provides financial literacy education to primary school learners, currently reaching over 200 Grade 7 pupils at Olifantsfontein Primary School in Clayville.
• SAIA Media Awareness Programme – Raises awareness of current industry issues such as climate change, driver behaviour, and maintenance of insured assets as part of effective risk management practices.

Each initiative is crafted to be measurable, impactful, and aimed at underserved groups, including rural communities, young people, and small businesses.

These achievements are made possible through the voluntary contributions of SAIA members, recognised under the Consumer Education element of the Financial Sector Code (FS Code). This reinforces the industry’s collective commitment to transformation, empowerment, and the promotion of financial inclusion in South Africa.

Click here for the full CE Report.