Kampala, Uganda – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially announced Uganda’s intention to vie for the chairmanship of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Council of Administration for the 2025–2029 cycle. The announcement was made during a diplomatic briefing in Kampala, presided over by Amb. John L. Mugerwa, Head of the International Legal and Social Affairs (ILSA), on behalf of Permanent Secretary Vincent Waiswa Bagiire. The event drew members of the Diplomatic Corps, regional partners, international organizations, and key stakeholders.
Amb. Mugerwa emphasized that Uganda’s candidature builds on decades of active engagement in multilateral cooperation and contributions to global postal governance. He highlighted that Uganda’s bid reflects a commitment to regional equity, sustainable development, and reforms within the UPU. Central to Uganda’s vision, he said, is ensuring that no member country particularly those in the developing world is left behind, while championing improved infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and modernized postal services that drive international trade and economic development.
Uganda’s record in influencing global postal policy formed a key part of the briefing. The country has played an active role in shaping the remuneration system for operators, modernizing postal services, and advancing digital innovations. Programs supported by the UPU have already helped Uganda strengthen its postal infrastructure with delivery vehicles, ICT systems, and advanced tracking tools. Additionally, initiatives such as the integration of the UPU Postal Customs Declaration System with domestic platforms and the adoption of Smart Post technologies have positioned Uganda as an emerging regional hub for e-commerce and cross-border trade.
Postmaster-General James Arinaitwe reaffirmed the importance of Uganda’s postal sector, noting that in the past year alone, Posta Uganda handled more than 79 tons of outgoing packages and received 229 tons globally demonstrating its central role in trade, financial inclusion, and social connectivity.
Fred Otunnu, Acting Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), pledged the regulator’s support for the bid, underscoring UCC’s commitment to quality service delivery, fair competition, and infrastructure modernization. He stressed that fostering innovation within the communications sector would further strengthen Uganda’s contribution to regional and global connectivity.
Diplomatic representatives present at the briefing expressed goodwill and pledged support for Uganda’s candidacy. Amb. Mugerwa concluded by reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to multilateralism, inclusiveness, and consensus-building, calling upon the international community and UPU member states to back Uganda’s candidature during the 28th UPU Congress in Dubai in 2025.
Uganda’s pursuit of the UPU Council chairmanship not only underscores its national priorities but also reflects its determination to represent the aspirations of the Global South and to build a more resilient and inclusive global postal system.