Photo: Fredynjeje, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0Business insurance and work injury in Tanzania
Business insurance in Tanzania: WCF contributions and compulsory covers
Short answerChecked 23 September 2026
Every employer in Tanzania pays the Workers Compensation Fund 0.5% of employees' gross earnings — public and private alike — and must report work accidents within 7 working days. The Insurance Act also makes insurance compulsory for imported goods, public markets, commercial buildings, marine vessels and ferries (s.134).
Workers Compensation Fund (WCF)
From the WCF:
| Rule | What it says |
|---|---|
| Rate | 0.5% of employees' gross earnings (basic pay + fixed allowances), public and private sector |
| Who pays | The employer only — deducting it from wages is a criminal offence |
| When | Within the month or the next one (July's contribution by 31 August) |
| Late payment | 2% interest (Workers' Compensation Act s.75(2)) |
| Accidents | Report to WCF within 7 working days, on portal.wcf.go.tz |
Other compulsory business insurance
Section 134(1) of the Insurance Act, added in 2022, says no one may import goods or operate a public market, commercial building, marine vessel, ferry or pontoon without insurance cover. Regulations are to list which buildings, markets and goods are concerned; ask your insurer or broker which apply to you.
Covers most businesses consider
- Fire and allied perils for premises and stock.
- Burglary and money cover.
- Public liability, if customers visit you.
- Goods in transit, for deliveries.
- Motor fleet cover, with passenger cover for vehicles carrying people for hire.
What would you like to do now?
Frequently asked questions
What is the WCF contribution rate in Tanzania?
0.5% of employees' gross earnings, for both public and private employers, according to the WCF.
Is building insurance compulsory in Tanzania?
For commercial buildings, yes: Insurance Act s.134(1) forbids operating a commercial building, public market, marine vessel or ferry, or importing goods, without insurance.