Life insurance in Ethiopia — all 18 providers compared.

01

Term vs whole life

Term life pays out only if you die within the policy term — it is pure protection and the cheapest option. Whole life builds a cash value over time and pays regardless of when you die. Endowment policies combine protection with a savings element.

02

How premiums are calculated

Life insurance premiums in Ethiopia are based on age, health, sum assured and policy term. Younger policyholders pay significantly lower premiums. Most insurers require a medical questionnaire and some require a physical examination for large sums assured.

03

What to check before buying

Confirm the exclusions — most Ethiopian life policies exclude suicide in the first two years, war and pre-existing conditions. Check whether the policy is participating (with-profits) or non-participating. Understand the surrender value if you cancel early.