By Mulengera Reporters
Africa’s postal networks are undergoing a major transformation, evolving from traditional mail services into powerful platforms that drive e-commerce, digital trade, logistics, and last-mile connectivity. Uganda through the Uganda Communication Commission (UCC) has now taken a center stage in this transformation by hosting the 44th Pan-African Postal Union (PAPU) Administrative Council, bringing together the continent’s postal leaders to shape the future of Africa’s postal sector.
Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, who was the Chief Guest welcomed delegates to Uganda and emphasized the Council’s critical role as the “steering system” guiding Africa’s postal development between Plenipotentiary Conferences. She noted that modern postal networks are no longer just service providers but essential national and continental assets, supporting economic growth, trade, and digital integration across Africa.
Dr. Zawedde also underscored Uganda’s active leadership in PAPU, represented by Assistant Secretary General Mrs. Jessica Hope Ssengooba, as evidence of the country’s commitment to postal modernization, digital transformation, and regional cooperation. She highlighted the vital role postal networks play in national digital initiatives, financial inclusion, cross-border trade, and access to government services, particularly for rural communities.
She reiterated Uganda’s commitment to strengthen Africa’s postal sector, expressing confidence that the Council’s deliberations would advance modernization, cooperation, and sustainable development across the continent.
Hon. Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission, described the Administrative Council as the “parliament” of PAPU and emphasized its importance in maintaining the Union’s work between Plenipotentiary sessions. He highlighted that postal and courier networks have evolved into complex digital platforms that support trade, connect communities, and enable efficient last-mile delivery.
Hon. Thembo called on delegates to adopt innovative solutions such as digital addressing, track-and-trace systems, and data-driven logistics to improve operational efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. He stressed that through reform, collaboration, and digital innovation, Africa’s postal sector can remain relevant and continue to grow in the global economy.
The Council is now in plenary sessions, engaging in discussions aimed at modernizing Africa’s postal sector, enhancing regional cooperation, and preparing for the upcoming Plenipotentiary Conference. With Africa’s postal networks increasingly supporting digital trade and e-commerce, the decisions made in Kampala are set to shape the continent’s economic connectivity and digital transformation for years to come. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
