PAPU urged to accelerate digital transformation for inclusive postal growth
ARUSHA: THE Pan African Postal Union (PAPU) has been urged to embrace digital transformation to keep pace with changing consumer behaviour, increasing global competition and emerging business opportunities through innovation and inclusive responses aimed at enhancing security and African solidarity.
The call was made recently during the opening ceremony of the 43rd PAPU Administrative Council Meeting in Arusha.
Speaking on behalf of Mr Mohammed Abdulla, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Tanzania Posts Corporation Postmaster General, Mr Macrice Mbodo, emphasised the need for Africa to adapt, innovate and lead in shaping the continent’s complex and evolving ecosystem particularly through sustainable and inclusive postal strategies.
Mr Mbodo noted that the Tanzanian government recognises the critical role PAPU plays in promoting coastal development, regional integration, digital inclusion and in implementing strategic visions that ensure communication access for all citizens, regardless of their geographical location.
He further underscored PAPU’s importance as a catalyst for e-commerce, financial inclusion and the delivery of government services as key elements in Africa’s ongoing social transformation.
Commending efforts toward modernisation, interconnectivity and enhanced cooperation among African states, Mr Mbodo stressed the importance of ensuring that PAPU remains aligned with global trends and emerging demands.
“We must expand access to digital financial services through the postal network and invest in capacity building to elevate the status of the postal sector,” he said.
On his part, PAPU Secretary General Dr Sifundo Moyo highlighted the strategic significance of the Administrative and Technical Committees’ meetings held as part of the 43rd Ordinary Session of the PAPU Administrative Council in Arusha.
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Dr Moyo described the meetings as more than routine gatherings, calling them “the heartbeat of the Union’s covenant” and spaces where critical ideas are tested, priorities reassessed and collective wisdom translated into actionable strategies.
He stated that the meetings brought together key committees, including the Operations and Technology Committee, the Regulation and Policy Committee, the Finance and Administration Committee and the Strategy Committee.
“These bodies are responsible for evaluating reports, analysing programme directions, scrutinising financial plans and developing recommendations that will guide the broader Administrative Council’s decisions,” he explained.
Dr Moyo added, “The African postal sector is no longer a static institution.
It is in constant evolution shaped by digital disruption, demographic transitions, environmental concerns and rising public expectations.
” According to him, today’s postal consumers expect more than traditional mail services. They demand mobility, reliability and services that bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, formal and informal sectors.
