19 April 2024, Kampala, Uganda
In a focused endeavor to fortify global supply chains against the trafficking of dangerous substances, the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances Programme participated in the UCC's Postal and Courier Stakeholder Engagement event.
Nearly 50 participants, comprising law and regulatory enforcement officers, national experts from Uganda and Kenya, and industry representatives from various sectors including postal services, express couriers, freight forwarders, last-mile delivery services, and e-commerce platforms, gathered to build cooperations and enhance security measures in this strategic initiative.
Agatha Kyakunzire, Manager of Postal Services at the Uganda Communications Commission, underlined the significance of the stakeholder meeting with a resolute statement: "This stakeholder meeting is going to enable the stakeholders to exchange ideas on the arising issues in this dynamic and evolving industry and answer most of the lingering questions surrounding the industry and UCC is more than willing to go through this with its stakeholders." Her words underscored the collaborative spirit that infused the discussions throughout the event, setting the tone for meaningful engagement and exchange.
The session facilitated dynamic discussions and presentations aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and cooperation within the postal and courier industry. Presentations by entities such as the Universal Postal Union (UPU), the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), the INCB Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances Programme (GRIDS Programme), and sector representatives offered strategic insights into addressing prevailing challenges.
During the event, INCB emphasized the significance of public-private partnerships in combating global trafficking of dangerous substances. Stressing the importance of innovative solutions and information sharing, INCB highlighted the crucial role of cooperation. Participants benefited from crucial updates on substances of concern, including fentanyl-related substances, emerging non-fentanyl opioids, and novel benzodiazepines, enhancing their ability to address illicit activities. Additionally, INCB underscored the importance of utilizing the Voluntary Cooperation for Express Couriers and Freight Forwarders during the meeting.
As the event drew to a close, participants collaboratively devised an action plan for future cooperation, rooted in shared principles of collaboration and dedication. This initiative highlights the pivotal role of public-private partnerships in safeguarding global supply chains against the infiltration of dangerous substances.
The Board's Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme operates under the International Narcotics Control Board's unique Article 35 (1961) treaty mandate that supports Governments' capabilities to exchange information on trafficking, illicit manufacture, marketing and sales of NPS, synthetic opioids, fentanyls and related chemicals, by providing real-time communication, and capabilities to facilitate information exchange and intelligence development with the aim to interdict distribution of dangerous substances.
This event was made possible through generous support from the Government of Japan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Click here to learn more about the GRIDS Programme
Click here to learn more about the OPIOIDS Project
Click here to learn more about the Project ION
