Determinants of uptake of insurance services among selected SMEs in Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

The uptake of insurance services among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Lusaka, Zambia, remains suboptimal despite the significant role these businesses play in the economy. This study aimed to unravel the factors influencing this uptake, focusing particularly on the impact of access to finance, inadequate knowledge, and perceived economic risks. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combined quantitative data from a survey of 113 SME owners and qualitative insights from in-depth interviews. The quantitative analysis utilized regression and correlation techniques to examine the relationships between the variables, while the qualitative component provided contextual depth to the findings. The results highlighted a strong positive influence of access to finance on insurance uptake, a negative impact of inadequate knowledge, and a positive effect of perceived economic risks on the propensity of SMEs to engage with insurance services. These findings underscore the complex interplay of financial, informational, and risk-related factors in shaping insurance adoption among SMEs. Based on these insights, the key recommendation is for a concerted effort to enhance financial accessibility for SMEs, coupled with targeted educational programs to bridge the knowledge gap on insurance services. This dual approach would likely foster a more conducive environment for insurance uptake among SMEs in Lusaka, enhancing their resilience and contribution to the broader economy.