By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Government has launched a national e-commerce platform aimed at expanding market access for Ugandan businesses and accelerating the country’s digital transformation agenda.
The platform, known as Postcom, was unveiled by ICT and National Guidance state minister, Godfrey Baluku Kabbyanga at the Uganda Media Centre Kampala on Tuesday.
Minister Kabbyanga said the innovation aligns with Uganda’s Digital Transformation Roadmap for the Financial Years 2023/24–2027/28. The roadmap, launched in August 2023 by Vice President Jessica Alupo, seeks to drive Uganda’s digital revolution, promote an inclusive digital society, improve economic competitiveness and enhance service delivery.
Kabbyanga said the development of Postcom by Posta Uganda is a key milestone in implementing the roadmap, noting that the platform provides an opportunity for citizens to buy and sell products online.
“With Postcom, all micro, small and medium enterprises will be able to reach wider markets both locally and internationally, while Posta Uganda will support last-mile delivery,” he said.
He added that the platform will transform post offices into one-stop centres for locally produced goods in line with the government’s Buy Uganda Build Uganda (BUBU) policy, while also promoting digital inclusion and economic growth.
“This is a very good step in enabling every Ugandan to sell their products and services beyond borders. It will increase market access and improve household incomes,” Kabbyanga noted, urging entrepreneurs to embrace the platform.
The minister also called on Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) as well as the private sector to adopt the initiative.
“I now take this opportunity to launch Postcom,” he declared.
Speaking at the same event, Posta Uganda Managing Director, James Arinaitwe said the platform is designed to provide a secure and accessible marketplace for Ugandans to transact electronically.
“For citizens to have a platform where they can easily transact online, shop and sell their products and services electronically, the Post Office will link buyers and sellers,” Arinaitwe said.
He emphasized that the government-owned platform is open to all Ugandans, regardless of the scale of their business.
“We don’t mind what you want to sell, even if it is two dresses, a pair of shoes or consultancy skills. Put them on this platform and we will ensure we keep you in touch with buyers,” he said.
Arinaitwe added that listing products on Postcom will be free of charge, with the platform run and maintained by Posta Uganda, while advertising will be regulated by the Uganda Communications Commission.
“The only limitation will be what the regulator considers disallowed for public viewing. Otherwise, this platform is for all Ugandans,” he said.
Government officials say the initiative is expected to boost visibility of Ugandan products and services, particularly for small businesses, while strengthening the country’s digital economy.
