By Mulengera Reporters
Ugandan singer and Equity Bank brand ambassador, Nakiyingi Veronica a.k.a Vinka has urged Ugandans to take health security seriously by signing up for EquiLife, a newly launched hospital cash and last-expense insurance product rolled out by Equity Bank Uganda.
Speaking during the launch of the product on April 3rd, Vinka said medical bills remain one of the biggest challenges Ugandans face during illness, especially for those working in the informal sector or without access to traditional insurance.
“With just UGX 3,000 a month, you can rest easy knowing you have coverage when you’re hospitalized. EquiLife is here to help us face life’s challenges without fear of medical bills,” she said, calling on fans and fellow Ugandans to sign up at their nearest EquiDuuka agent.
Her message was echoed by Equity Bank officials, who said the new insurance plan is meant to ease the financial burden of illness and hospitalization. Customers who sign up will receive UGX 50,000 per day of hospital stay, up to 20 days, payable upon discharge. The plan also includes support for funeral-related expenses, offering families a dignified option during difficult times.
The product is part of Equity’s broader push to offer affordable, inclusive financial services tailored to the needs of ordinary Ugandans. According to the Bank, the policy was designed after noticing that many customers were vulnerable to sudden health costs and often lacked a financial cushion during recovery.
A source from the product development team described EquiLife as “straightforward, compassionate, and relevant to everyday life,” adding that the hospital cash benefit is not tied to a specific facility where customers can go to any licensed hospital, be treated, and claim the benefit after being discharged.
At the heart of the product’s rollout is access and Equity Bank has opted to use its wide network of EquiDuuka agents, many of whom are embedded in local communities, to register customers. Registration is done digitally, takes only a few minutes, and is available to anyone with an Equity Bank account.
Since the launch, the bank has seen an increase in inquiries from boda boda riders, teachers, traders, and market vendors, groups often excluded from formal insurance plans.
While insurance products have traditionally struggled to take off in Uganda, Equity Bank hopes that the simplicity and low monthly cost of EquiLife will change that narrative.
“In Uganda, we say, ‘You prepare for the dry season in the wet one,’ and that’s what this product is all about. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
