Building insurance through an NGO: Approaches and experiences from a rice insurance pilot in Haiti

Abstract

Purpose

This paper is based on a crop insurance implementation currently undergoing in Haiti. The purpose of this paper is to present the development of a program tailored to rice production in the Artibonite Valley, the challenges and opportunities that are arising from the exercise as well as pitfalls and ways to avoid them.

Design/methodology/approach

The Système de Financement et d’Assurances Agricoles en Haïti’s approach for the development of crop insurance is in accordance with 13 concepts considered essential in the implementation of agricultural insurance programs. The case study is presented through each of these 13 fundamental concepts.

Findings

The paper provides an insight on challenges any organization will face when implementing crop insurance for smallholder farmers. It points out notably that close collaboration of executing agencies with local partners is essential from data collection through insurance development and delivery and that all participants should receive a specific training tailored to their level of education and understanding.

Social implications

Haiti is one of the poorest countries on the planet. Smallholder farmers could benefit a lot from crop insurance. It could help them stabilize their income when facing crop losses due to natural hazards or uncontrollable natural events.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to share real case studies exposing challenges faced when implementing crop insurance for smallholder farmers.

Citation

Bélanger, M.-C. (2016), "Building insurance through an NGO: Approaches and experiences from a rice insurance pilot in Haiti", Agricultural Finance Review, Vol. 76 No. 1, pp. 119-139. https://doi.org/10.1108/AFR-12-2015-0057