Funeral policy practices exploiting bereaved families, says ZNOART

The Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations and Residents Trust (ZNOART) has raised concern over what it describes as unfair practices by funeral assurance companies, warning that many families are being burdened by costly and inflexible funeral policies.

In a community discussion statement issued on 7 May, ZNOART said funeral policies - originally designed to provide dignity and relief during bereavement - were increasingly becoming a source of financial strain for low‑income households already struggling with the rising cost of living.

The organisation highlighted several complaints commonly raised by residents, including endless premium payments without clear maturity benefits, policy cancellations after short periods of non‑payment, lack of transparency in policy terms and conditions, and rising funeral costs despite years of contributions.

ZNOART also expressed concern over aggressive marketing practices allegedly targeting vulnerable communities.

The residents' body acknowledged recent interventions by the Insurance and Pensions Commission (IPEC) aimed at improving consumer protection and addressing perpetual premium payments. However, it said stronger reforms and tighter oversight were still required.

"As residents, we believe funeral assurance must never become a lifelong financial trap. Funeral policies should offer peace of mind — not deepen household poverty," the organisation said.

ZNOART called for greater transparency from funeral assurance providers, urging companies to clearly explain policy terms, waiting periods, exclusions, surrender values and payout structures in simple language accessible to ordinary citizens.

The organisation also advocated for affordable funeral products that reflect the economic realities facing Zimbabwean families and informal workers. It said policyholders who have contributed for many years should not lose benefits because of temporary financial difficulties.

ZNOART further called for intensified consumer‑education campaigns to help residents understand the differences between funeral assurance, burial societies and life‑insurance products.

It also urged authorities to strengthen regulation and ensure funeral assurance companies comply with national standards while treating policyholders with dignity and fairness.

The organisation noted that burial societies and community‑based solidarity systems continue to play an important role in Zimbabwe's social protection landscape and should be supported.

"No resident should be exploited in moments of grief," ZNOART said.