Kenya re-elected to Universal Postal Union Council at Dubai congress

Kenya has been re-elected for a four-year term to the Postal Operations Council (POC) of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), the United Nations agency that sets global postal standards.

The re-election, which took place at the 28th Universal Postal Congress in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, allows Kenya to retain its seat in the 48-member council, the UPU’s main technical and operational decision-making body.

Kenya secured 127 votes, confirming its continued influence in shaping global postal policies and operational standards.

The country is one of 11 African members elected to the POC, highlighting the continent’s strong representation in international postal governance. Other African countries elected include Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Tanzania, Tunisia, Seychelles, Senegal, Guinea, and Cape Verde.

The POC plays a critical role in shaping global postal operations, including service quality, digital transformation, and the integration of e-commerce and financial services. Kenya’s continued presence underscores the country’s longstanding commitment to advancing efficient and inclusive postal and courier services.

The Congress also reappointed Masahiko Metoki of Japan as Director General for a second term, while Marjan Osvald of Slovenia was re-elected as Deputy Director General.

Kenya’s delegation was led by ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo, alongside Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke.

CS Kabogo emphasised Kenya’s long-standing role in the UPU, spanning more than six decades, and the importance of continued active participation in global postal policymaking.

“We are proud to secure one of the 11 African slots in the 48-member body that sets global postal standards, affirming Kenya’s leadership in advancing inclusive, modern postal and courier services,” said Kabogo.

The Dubai Congress also elected members to the 41-member Council of Administration, which oversees the UPU’s work between Congresses.

Delegates further adopted the Dubai Postal Strategy, a blueprint for the next four years focusing on improving service quality, enhancing inclusivity and sustainability, accelerating digital transformation, expanding e-commerce and financial services for SMEs, and strengthening cybersecurity and clean energy adoption across the postal value chain.