African postal leaders call for urgent digital transformation at PAPU conference
Date: 2026-03-26
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Zimbabwe’s
Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, has called for
accelerated digital transformation in Africa’s postal sector, emphasizing the
need for modernization to keep pace with evolving communication and logistics
demands.
Speaking
as Chairperson of the Pan African Postal Union Plenipotentiary Conference,
Mavetera highlighted the growing consensus among member states on prioritizing
digital innovation within the sector. The conference, currently underway in
Uganda, is bringing together stakeholders to elect new leadership and define
strategic priorities for the next four years.
The
event featured Robinah Nabbanja as Guest of Honour, with discussions
underscoring the role of leadership and collaboration in advancing the
continent’s digital agenda.
Mavetera
stressed that postal services must embrace digital technologies to remain
relevant, noting that the sector cannot afford to lag behind in an increasingly
digital global economy. She called on member states to place connectivity,
innovation, and inclusive access at the center of future strategies.
The conference is also set to usher in new leadership, with Chris Baryomunsi expected to assume the role of incoming chairman for the next four-year term.
Stakeholders
at the meeting are focused on shaping a forward-looking agenda aimed at
strengthening the role of postal services in Africa’s digital transformation,
while expanding access and improving service delivery across the continent.
