The Malawi guide in full
Who regulates insurance in Malawi
The Governor of the Reserve Bank is the Registrar of Financial Institutions, "the regulatory and supervisory authority for the financial services industry" (Financial Services Act, section 8). The Insurance Act requires a licence to carry on insurance business (section 7), to act as a broker (section 27) or as an agent (section 39). More: the Reserve Bank and the Insurance Act.
Who is licensed (30 June 2026)
| On the Registrar's list | Number |
|---|---|
| General insurance companies | 8 |
| Life insurance companies | 6 |
| Inclusive insurance company | 1 |
| Reinsurance company | 1 |
| Insurance brokers | 32 |
| Bancassurance agents (banks) | 5 |
| Claim settling agents | 3 |
Counted from the list of licensed, registered and supervised financial institutions as at 30 June 2026, published by the Registrar on 28 October 2026. Amounts on this site are in Malawi kwacha (MK).
Where to start
| You want to… | Read |
|---|---|
| Pay for private health care | MASM medical aid · Health insurance in Malawi |
| Insure a car, minibus or truck | Motor insurance · Third party vs comprehensive · Minibus, taxi and truck |
| Protect a family | Life insurance · Funeral cover |
| Insure a home or a business | Home insurance · Business insurance · Workers' compensation |
| Claim or complain | Insurance claims · Claim timeline calculator · How to complain |
| Check an insurer | Licensed insurers · Check an insurer, agent or broker · Your rights |
Frequently asked questions
Is car insurance compulsory in Malawi?
Yes. Section 141 of the Road Traffic Act forbids using a motor vehicle on a public road without insurance against third party risks. See motor insurance.
Who regulates insurance companies in Malawi?
The Registrar of Financial Institutions, who is the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Malawi, under the Insurance Act 2010 and the Financial Services Act 2010.
How many insurance companies are there in Malawi?
The Registrar's list as at 30 June 2026 names 8 general insurers, 6 life insurers, 1 inclusive insurance company and 1 reinsurer. See the full list.
Where do I complain about an insurer in Malawi?
To the insurer first, then to the Registrar of Financial Institutions at the Reserve Bank of Malawi: 80 008 444, complaints-handling@rbm.mw. See how to complain.
Sources
- Financial Services Act, Cap. 44:05 (Act 26 of 2010) — MalawiLII consolidated text, Web Archive copy
- Insurance Act, Cap. 47:01 (Act 9 of 2010, in force 1 October 2010) — MalawiLII consolidated text, Web Archive copy
- Registrar of Financial Institutions — Press release: list of licensed, registered and supervised financial institutions as at 30 June 2026 (published 28 October 2026)
- Road Traffic Act, Cap. 69:01 (in force 15 January 1998), Part XIV: compulsory third party insurance — MalawiLII consolidated text, Web Archive copy
- Ministry of Health — Health Sector Strategic Plan III 2023–2030: Reforming for Universal Health Coverage (FAOLEX copy)
- MASM — Schemes and monthly contributions (seen 31 October 2026)
- Reserve Bank of Malawi — Consumer protection: complaints handling (how to lodge a complaint, hotline 80 008 444)