In Zimbabwe, millions of people are prioritizing funeral insurance over medical coverage, despite the high costs of healthcare. This trend is driven by the cultural importance of dignity and respect in death, as well as the limited accessibility and affordability of medical insurance. While health insurance is available through employers, fewer than 900,000 Zimbabweans are formally employed, and many struggle to afford the monthly premiums. In contrast, funeral insurance plans are widely accessible and relatively low-cost, making them a more viable option for many. However, some argue that this trend represents a "commercialization of life", as people are forced to prepare for death more than life. Despite the challenges, the government is planning to launch a national health insurance scheme to expand access to quality healthcare for all.
