Feasibility Study on Climate Risk Insurance in Malawi

Malawi is susceptible to adverse climate disaster risks which are exacerbated by climate change. These disasters include dry spells, seasonal droughts, excessive rainfall, river floods and flash floods (World Bank, 2021). It is reported that between the years 1979 and 2008, over 21.7 million people were affected adversely by these disasters while 2,596 lost their lives. Since Malawi is an agriculture-based economy, these disasters have also profoundly affected the country’s food security and gross domestic product (GDP).

This study examines the growing impact of climate induced disaster on the agriculture sector in Malawi and explores financial gaps that could feasibly be filled through climate risk insurance (CRI) solutions.

By shedding light on the intricate interplay between demand and supply, this study aims to inform the 'Climate Risk Insurance' Programming under UNCDF's ‘Climate Agenda’ about the state of climate and risk insurance in Malawi, with the ultimate goal of enhancing resilience and adaptation in the face of an increasingly uncertain climate future through targeted CRI instruments.