UCC and UPU Workshop on Postal and Courier Supply Chain Security and Electronic Advance Data Exchange to Strengthen Security and Interdiction Efforts in Uganda
18 April 2024, Kampala, Uganda - The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme participated in a three-day workshop on postal and courier supply chain security and electronic advance data exchange hosted by the Uganda Communications Commission and the Universal Postal Union in Uganda from 16-18 April 2024.
The workshop brought together 40 law and regulatory enforcement officers, national experts from Uganda and Kenya, and industry representatives from the post, express couriers, freight forwarders, last mile delivery services and e-commerce platforms to build cooperations and improve security. The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights, share best practices, and establish collaborative networks to address the evolving challenges in the postal channels. Participants gained valuable knowledge and practical strategies to strengthen supply chain security and mitigate the risks associated with the trafficking of dangerous substances.
Photo: Uganda Communications Commission, Director Julianne Mweheire opening remarks
In her opening remarks, Julianne Mweheire, the Director of Industry Affairs & Content Development at UCC, emphasized the pivotal role of the Commission in regulating various aspects of the communications industry, including postal services and electronic communications. She highlighted the Commission's commitment to promoting and safeguarding the interests of consumers and operators by ensuring the quality of services, as well as underscoring the importance of coordination and collaboration with relevant national and international organizations in matters relating to communications.
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in discussions and interactive sessions aimed at providing an overview of national drug control efforts and exploring the potential for trafficking in various substances, including new psychoactive substances (NPS) and non-medical synthetic opioids. Including practical training sessions on the INCB GRIDS Intelligence tools and safe handling practices.
Photo: INCB GRIDS Programme Materials including, awareness and safe interdiction approaches and practical guidance for voluntary cooperation for freight forwarders
The Board's Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme and Project ION and OPIOIDS Project support Governments' capacity to respond to changing trafficking, illicit manufacture, marketing and sales of NPS, non-medical synthetic opioids and fentanyl-related substances by providing real-time communication, facilitating information exchange and intelligence development that 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