Govt backs postal digital transformation

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has pledged to modernise postal sector through improved policies, laws and regulations, as well as investment in digital systems and infrastructure to improve service delivery.

Deputy Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Dr Switbert Mkama, said the government will continue creating a conducive environment for investment, competition and innovation to ensure postal services meet the changing needs of customers and businesses.

Speaking during the climax of the 2026 World Post Day celebrations in Dar es Salaam on Friday, Dr Mkama said the government will support the expansion and upgrading of post offices, delivery networks, digital platforms and the National Physical Addressing System.

He said the measures are necessary as technological advances, the growth of e-commerce and changing customer expectations reshape the postal sector.

“Today, citizens need fast, secure, accessible and affordable services,” he said.

Dr Mkama said a strong postal sector requires modern infrastructure, effective use of technology, innovation and close cooperation among stakeholders.

He stressed that investment in postal infrastructure must go hand in hand with digital transformation to improve service delivery, information management and operational efficiency.

The deputy minister urged postal operators to strengthen parcel-tracking systems so customers can obtain accurate information on the location of their consignments throughout transportation.

He also called on service providers to improve the interoperability of their systems to facilitate information exchange while safeguarding customers’ data security and privacy.

According to Dr Mkama, an integrated postal network will improve operational efficiency and service quality while helping small and medium-sized businesses expand their online operations.

He said such improvements could also create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth by facilitating domestic and international trade.

Dr Mkama further highlighted the importance of the National Physical Addressing System, describing it as essential to efficient postal services, document delivery and parcel distribution.

He said the government will continue developing and improving addressing infrastructure to support reliable postal services, goods transportation and e-commerce.

The deputy minister urged the Tanzania Posts Corporation (TPC) and courier companies to prioritise service quality, affordability, security and accessibility, particularly for rural communities, commercially underserved areas and people with special needs.

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He also called on the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) to ensure regulation keeps pace with technological developments, market changes and customer needs while encouraging investment in modern infrastructure.

This year’s World Post Day celebrations were held under the theme “One Postal Network, Infinity Possibilities.” Dr Mkama said the theme highlights the importance of connecting postal operators to improve efficiency and expand access to services.

TPC Director of Marketing and Sales, Mr Ferdinand Kabyemela, acknowledged the government’s contribution to the development of the postal sector through investment in digital infrastructure and the creation of a supportive policy and legal environment.

He said the support has enabled TPC to strengthen its services, improve delivery efficiency and participate more effectively in domestic and international markets.

Mr Kabyemela said this year’s commemorations also featured a letter-writing competition that attracted 1,333 primary and secondary school students, comprising 508 boys and 825 girls. Iringa Region recorded the highest number of participants, followed by Dar es Salaam and Mara.

“The competition provides an opportunity for young people to develop writing skills, creativity and the ability to express their ideas effectively,” he said.

World Post Day is marked annually on October 9 to commemorate the establishment of the Universal Postal Union in 1874.