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The concept of insurance is that resources should be pooled for a rainy day, to cover an identified risk, so that in the event of something befalling the covered insured entity they can be restored to their previous state or at least receive compensation for loss.
It would seem we are a long way to go when it comes to such cover in general. Stories of appeals for assistance from even breadwinners are quite common especially in emergencies.
This shows the state of the economy on one hand and the need for comprehensive insurance to cover such eventualities on the other.
Elsewhere in this publication we carry the story of Brian Njobvu, a former Hwange FC assistant coach who was injured at a soccer match 19 years ago. We understand that his was a freak accident in which his leg was run over by his team bus after he attempted to quell a fight between two sets of supporters.
While his employers stood by him through the ordeal leading to him getting an artificial leg that needs replacing over time, it is quite apparent that many that find themselves in his situation cannot afford to replace their walking aides.
This is quite unfortunate that even the employed cannot afford such limb replacements at a cost of US$300.
We would like to applaud the well-wishers that came to the rescue of Njobvu and donated the artificial leg. We commend the spirit of giving and compassion shown by the givers and hope that more people could be assisted as we get these regular appeals for help.
It is especially touching when well known personalities find themselves in such difficult circumstances. It is our view that people that battle against such long term health challenges should be assisted financially.
In the sport industry, we believe that clubs need to look into the issue of insurance especially for players since there is a high risk of injury to such personnel.
We are aware that many clubs assist here and there but it may not be structured, and their former players may not be their responsibility though their brand would somehow be connected to their ex-players or coaches.
It is against this background that we believe we need structured insurance packages that safeguard our sportspersons against such long term financial burden as a result of injury or ill-health.
Our view is that it is only a few whose plight is highlighted that get assistance but there could be many more suffering in silence, and could have been assisted had there been a structured insurance scheme run by the leagues, or even coaches’ body.
Online Reporter