NMB Bank Plc has been recognised internationally for its efforts to expand insurance access through digital solutions after winning the Best Bancassurance Innovation and Partner of the Year – Tanzania 2026 award from the World Economic Magazine.
The award, announced in May 2026 by the Delaware, United States-based publication, highlights NMB’s contribution to transforming insurance distribution through technology, making insurance products easier to access for individuals and businesses across Tanzania.
The recognition comes at a time when the country is working to increase insurance coverage and strengthen financial inclusion by using digital platforms to reach more citizens.
Data from the Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA) shows insurance penetration reached 2.08 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2024, rising from 2.01 percent in 2023. The growth reflects progress in the sector, while also pointing to the need for continued innovation to expand coverage.
NMB’s award demonstrates the increasing role of financial institutions in making insurance services part of everyday banking experiences.
One of the innovations behind the award is JIRANI, NMB’s WhatsApp-based chatbot that enables customers to access insurance services without physically visiting bank branches.
Through JIRANI, customers can purchase motor and group life insurance, complete registration processes, submit documents, obtain payment references and begin claims procedures using their mobile phones.
The platform has reduced barriers that have traditionally affected insurance uptake, including lengthy processes, paperwork and limited access to service points.
NMB has also strengthened its digital insurance services through the UmeBima Mini App, available within the NMB Mkononi Super App.
The platform allows customers to access insurance products alongside other banking services, providing a convenient one-stop digital financial experience.
NMB Chief Retail Banking Officer, Filbert Mponzi, said the award reflects the Bank’s continued commitment to using technology and partnerships to improve access to financial services.
“This award is a recognition of the work being undertaken by our team and partners to ensure that insurance services are simpler, more accessible and capable of reaching more Tanzanians,” said Mr Mponzi.
NMB Head of Bancassurance, Martine Massawe, said digital innovations have improved customer convenience by allowing people to access insurance services through mobile platforms.
“Through JIRANI and UmeBima, we have made it easier for customers to access insurance through their mobile phones. They can obtain information, purchase cover and complete important steps more conveniently,” she said.
NMB said the achievement has been supported by collaboration with insurance providers and technology partners, combining the Bank’s financial network with specialised insurance expertise.
The partnership model enables more Tanzanians to access insurance products through trusted channels while supporting efforts to improve financial protection for households and businesses.
With more than 10 million customers, 251 branches and over 75,000 NMB Wakala agents countrywide, NMB has one of the largest financial service networks in Tanzania.
The network provides a strong foundation for extending insurance services to communities in both urban and rural areas.
The latest global recognition positions NMB among institutions using digital innovation to address challenges in insurance accessibility and financial inclusion.
As insurance becomes increasingly important in protecting households and businesses against financial risks, digital platforms such as JIRANI and UmeBima are helping bring insurance services closer to more Tanzanians.
NMB said it will continue investing in technology, customer awareness and strategic partnerships to support wider insurance adoption and contribute to the country’s digital transformation agenda.
