Uganda has announced its candidature for membership of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Council of Administration for the 2025–2029 cycle, pledging to champion inclusiveness, innovation, and reforms in global postal services.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the announcement during a briefing with the Diplomatic Corps in Kampala, chaired by Amb. John L. Mugerwa, Head of the International Legal and Social Affairs Department, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Bagiire Vincent Waiswa. The event drew representatives from the Diplomatic Corps, regional partners, international organizations, and key stakeholders.
Amb. Mugerwa said Uganda’s candidacy reflects its extensive experience in multilateral cooperation and its long-standing contributions to global postal governance. “Our objective is to ensure that no member country, particularly those in the developing world, is left behind,” he said, emphasizing Uganda’s focus on strengthening postal infrastructure, enhancing connectivity, and modernizing services that support international trade and economic development.
Uganda’s record in shaping global postal policy was highlighted, including contributions to reforms in the remuneration system for postal operators, modernization of postal products and services, and the promotion of digital innovations. With UPU’s support, Uganda has expanded its postal infrastructure through new delivery vehicles, ICT equipment, and tracking systems that have improved efficiency and reliability.
The country has also embraced digital transformation, integrating the UPU Postal Customs Declaration System with domestic platforms and rolling out Smart Post initiatives that position Posta Uganda as a growing regional hub for cross-border services.
Postmaster-General James Arinaitwe stressed the sector’s central role in driving trade, financial inclusion, and social connectivity. “In the past year alone, Posta Uganda exchanged over 79 tons of items globally and received 229 tons of packages,” he said, noting its contribution to both commerce and citizen engagement.
Fred Otunnu, Acting Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), reaffirmed the regulator’s support, saying the candidature underscores Uganda’s commitment to fair competition, service quality, and consumer protection. “We remain focused on modernizing the communications landscape, expanding national coverage, and fostering innovation,” he said.
Several diplomatic representatives welcomed Uganda’s bid, expressing support ahead of the 28th UPU Congress scheduled to take place in Dubai in 2025.
Amb. Mugerwa closed the session by urging international partners and member states to back Uganda’s campaign. “Our commitment to multilateralism, regional inclusiveness, and consensus-building remains firm,” he said.
Uganda’s bid for a seat on the UPU Council of Administration, and its aspiration for the chairmanship, reflects both national interest and its broader mission to advance the aspirations of the Global South while strengthening the resilience of the global postal system.
