On behalf of the Government of Barbados, it is my privilege to address you today as we celebrate World Post Day 2024. Each year on 9th October, Designated Postal Operators around the world come together to commemorate the founding of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1874.
The UPU has been instrumental in fostering international cooperation and enabling global commerce and communication, ensuring that mail and parcels flow seamlessly across borders. Today, we not only recognize the UPU’s contributions but also celebrate the hard work and dedication of postal workers worldwide, including those right here in Barbados.
As we celebrate the importance of the Post, it is crucial to acknowledge the changing landscape of postal services. In the face of rapid technological advancements, globalization, and evolving consumer habits, postal services around the world are adapting to new realities.
The Barbados Postal Service (BPS) is no exception. Although we face significant competition from global logistics giants that have their own fleets of aircraft, we remain determined to find our place in this dynamic environment.
The BPS has taken strategic steps to leverage the opportunities presented by e-commerce. While letter mail has declined globally, the demand for small packets and parcels has surged, driven largely by online shopping. The BPS has positioned itself to capitalize on this growth, expanding its capacity to handle parcels and becoming a vital partner for small and medium-sized businesses. These efforts reflect our commitment to ensuring that the BPS remains relevant and continues to play a key role in facilitating commerce and communication.
Recognizing the logistical challenges inherent in operating without our own fleet of aircraft, the Barbados Postal Service has formed strategic partnerships to bridge these gaps. One notable partnership is with DHL, which enables us to offer a co-branded Worldwide Express Service to countries where our network faces significant limitations. This collaboration allows the BPS to provide a competitive option for express deliveries, ensuring that our customers can rely on us for high quality service even in the most challenging circumstances.
In addition to addressing international logistical challenges, the BPS is also working to improve regional mail delivery. We have initiated discussions with Connect Caribe, a maritime solution provider, and InterCaribbean Airways to enhance the movement of mail throughout the Caribbean.
“Whether it is receiving and processing payments for police certificates of character, liquor licenses, or inmate funds at Dodds Prison, the BPS is here to make life easier for Barbadians. We envision expanding this role, turning our post offices into central hubs for all government-related payments and disbursements, further enhancing convenience for the public.”
Minister of Home Affairs and Information, Wilfred Abrahams
These partnerships are a crucial step toward overcoming long-standing logistical obstacles in the region, especially for islands with limited air and sea transport options. Furthermore, we are engaging with international airlines to improve air logistics, with the goal of providing faster and more reliable mail services across the globe.
As part of our broader modernization efforts, the Barbados Postal Service is in the process of rolling out a new postal software solution PostGlobal by Reason Solutions Ltd. This advanced system will offer several benefits, including SMS notifications to keep customers updated on their shipments and a domestic real-time electronic postal money order service. These innovations will make the BPS more efficient, responsive, and aligned with the needs of a modern economy.
The BPS also plays a crucial role in serving our unbanked and financially underserved population. We understand that many Barbadians face challenges with online transactions, and we remain committed to ensuring that our services reach all segments of the community.
Our extensive network of 17 district post offices provides a reliable payment collection service for a wide range of Third Party Agencies (TPAs), including Government Ministries and Departments, utility companies, as well as private sector entities.
Whether it is receiving and processing payments for police certificates of character, liquor licenses, or inmate funds at Dodds Prison, the BPS is here to make life easier for Barbadians. We envision expanding this role, turning our post offices into central hubs for all government-related payments and disbursements, further enhancing convenience for the public.
On a broader scale, the Barbados Postal Service is taking the lead in regional postal development. Since the 25th Caribbean Postal Union (CPU) Conference in Jamaica, Barbados has been spearheading efforts to implement the Regional Strategic Plan for Courier and Postal Services.
Under the guidance of Mr. Timothy Odle, Deputy Programme Manager at the CARICOM Secretariat, this initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of postal services to contribute to investment, employment, and economic growth.
It also seeks to modernize the sector’s policy framework, reorganize its legal and regulatory structures, and improve operational capacity through targeted training. This project highlights our commitment to making postal services a key driver of development and competitiveness across the Caribbean.
Security is another critical area where the BPS plays a significant role. As a border security agency, the BPS works closely with the other border security agencies to protect our nation from contraband and illicit goods. This collaboration is essential to maintaining the safety and security of our borders and ensuring the well-being of our citizens.
Sustainability is also central to the Barbados Postal Service’s future. In keeping with the Universal Postal Union’s Sustainable Development Project and the Barbados Government’s commitment to becoming a one hundred percent (100%) green and carbon-neutral island by 2030, the BPS is transitioning to green energy.
We have already added three electric vehicles to our fleet, and we plan to continue expanding our use of environmentally friendly technologies, including packaging. These efforts are part of our broader strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future for Barbados.
In conclusion, as we celebrate World Post Day 2024, let us reflect on the vital role that postal services play in our world. The Barbados Postal Service has been serving the people of this island for over 170 years, and throughout that time, it has continually adapted to meet the needs of the public.
Today, the BPS is more than just a mail carrier it is a partner in economic development, a champion of sustainability, and a trusted provider of essential services. We are proud of the strides we have made and excited about the future, as we continue to innovate, modernize, and serve the people of Barbados.
Thank you.
Minister of Home Affairs and Information, Wilfred Abrahams