Nepal Advances Inclusive Insurance Efforts with UNDP–IIN National Training Programme

Kathmandu: Nepal has taken a significant step toward closing its protection gap with the completion of a four-module national training programme on inclusive insurance, jointly organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Nepal’s Insurance and Risk Finance Facility (IRFF) and the Insurance Institute of Nepal (IIN), with support from the Government of Germany.

The pioneering initiative trained 185 participants, including 73 women, from across the insurance ecosystem, aiming to expand coverage to underserved and vulnerable communities. 

Despite the country’s growing needs, life insurance coverage in Nepal remains at just 44.35%, including for migrant workers, while overall insurance penetration stands at 3.4% of GDP, well below the global average.

“This training is highly relevant for Nepal, where insurance coverage remains low and millions of people remain exposed to risks without adequate protection,” said Kyoko Yokosuka, UNDP Resident Representative. “Inclusive insurance is both a development imperative and a viable business opportunity for the industry.”

IIN Chairperson and NIA Executive Director Susil Dev Subedi emphasised the programme’s long-term impact, noting, “We now have over ten certified national trainers equipped to lead future trainings; that’s a legacy that will continue to grow.”

Representing the German Embassy, Benjamin Seidel reaffirmed his country’s support: “Together with UNDP, Germany remains committed to helping Nepal build a future where everyone, especially the most vulnerable, can access the protection they need to thrive.”

With IIN pledging to roll out training to provincial levels, the initiative is expected to strengthen financial perseverance nationwide and contribute to Nepal’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).