The spotlight of the 2025 European Microfinance Award did not shine on the winner alone. While Radiant Yacu took home the prize, the performances of the two runners-up – Britam General Insurance and DHAN Foundation – sent an equally powerful message about the strength and direction of the microinsurance sector.
Both organisations demonstrated that inclusive insurance can be scaled, trusted and financially viable in challenging markets. From Britam’s digital-first approach reaching millions across Kenya and beyond, to DHAN Foundation’s deeply rooted mutual model serving rural communities across India, the finalists showcased complementary pathways to impact.
This article reflects on why silver may have been as significant as gold – and how the achievements of the runners-up signal a maturing sector capable of delivering resilience at scale for low-income households.
Rift Partners is an insurance advisory firm that connects stakeholders across the global risk and insurance ecosystem to bridge gaps and unlock growth. They work with corporates – including reinsurers, insurers, and brokers – to identify opportunities and support strategic partnerships and innovative solutions. Rift Partners also partners with public sector actors such as development banks and international organisations to deliver sustainable resilience-focused insurance initiatives, and supports tech companies and start-ups in validating business models, building industry partnerships, and preparing for investment.
CASAI is an inclusive insurance architecture firm that brings expertise in designing and implementing inclusive insurance programs across Africa. Since its founding in 2022, CASAI has partnered with public and private entities – including governments, development agencies, and private sector actors – to develop sustainable and inclusive insurance solutions. CASAI also leads the implementation of multiple inclusive insurance programs in West Africa, supporting stakeholders in capacity building, program design, and multi-actor collaboration to maximise social impact.
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