The Postal Corporation of Kenya in conjunction with the Universal Post Union and the Communication Authority of Kenya joined hands today in celebrating the 145th World Post Day. World Post Day is celebrated every year on October 9th. The day is commemorated as the anniversary of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) which started in Switzerland in 1874.
The colourful event which was held in Nairobi, was attended by Juliana Yaipan who represented the chief guest , Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology, Milka Mugwe representing the Postmaster General, the chairperson of the Universal Service Advisory Board, Dr. Catherine Ngahu, the acting Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya, Mercy Wanjau and the CEO, Courier Industry Association of Kenya, Charity Mwanzia among other senior ministry officials and stakeholders.
Nerve centre
On a speech read on his behalf by Milka Mugwe, the Postmaster General observed that there are at least two post offices in each of the 47counties of Kenya. He emphasized that the post office is the nerve centre of the socio-economic development in rural areas.
The rise of technology as a great competition for Postal services was raised by various speakers during the event. To counter that, the CEO of Courier Industry of Kenya, Charity Mwanzia said: “Technological advancements have now made it possible to type and dictate messages and send them online on a touch of a button across the globe. However, the touch of a handwritten physical letter still remains the most intimate form of communication.” According to her, providers of courier services have evolved from being mere collectors and deliverers of various items collector to very fulfilling business partners. The courier industry contributes to economic growth by providing access to domestic and international markets, payment of license fees, levies and taxes as well as the provision of employment. It is also a source of income for investors.
The World Post Day creates an opportunity to pause and reflect on the critical role that is played by the postal and courier industry. Despite the challenges facing the industry, there are still opportunities to grow it by offering innovative products and exemplary services to the customers.
During the event, Posta Kenya rewarded students who won this year’s letter-writing competition for young people. Esther Wangari, a 15-year old pupil from Nyabangi High School in Kericho County emerged the overall winner. She received prize money of Kshs 100,000. In second and third positions were: Mose John Nyanchoka from Starehe Boys, Jabali Kang’ethe from Kilimani Junior, Rachel Kimeto from Kaplong Girls in Bomet County and Jane Muthoni from Kangema Township School. The second and third winners were awarded Kshs. 50,000 and Kshs. 30,000 respectively.
This year’s World Post Day theme was: ‘Delivering development is delivering success.’