The Pan African Postal Union (PAPU) and the East African Business Council (EABC) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand cross-border trade, strengthen e-commerce, and modernise logistics across Africa.
The deal was signed at the PAPU Tower in Arusha, Tanzania, by PAPU Secretary General Dr Moyo and EABC Acting Executive Director Adrian Raphael Njau. Both leaders said the agreement would play a key role in unlocking opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which connects 1.4 billion people and a market valued at $3.4 trillion.
Dr Moyo described the PAPU and EABC MoU as a new chapter for Africa’s digital economy. He said it would allow postal networks to work closely with the private sector to deliver solutions for cross-border trade.
Mr Njau highlighted its potential to integrate postal services with business ecosystems, empowering SMEs, youth, and women-led enterprises to trade seamlessly across borders. He stressed that access to reliable logistics and digital tools was essential for African entrepreneurs to succeed in the AfCFTA market.
The partnership will focus on expanding digital trade and e-commerce, improving logistics systems, advocating policy reforms, building the capacity of SMEs and postal operators, and promoting digital innovation in government services.
Both organisations noted that the success of the PAPU and EABC MoU would depend on strong commitment from member states and regional blocs. Coordinated business networks and harmonised trade policies, they said, would accelerate Africa’s integration and reduce barriers to commerce.
By modernising postal services and building stronger links with the private sector, the partnership aims to position Africa to connect, trade, and thrive in the digital age.
