Postal Services Licensing and Regulations
About Postal Services
The National Communications Authority (NCA) oversees the regulation and licensing of postal services in South Sudan, guided by the National Communications Postal Services Regulations, 2016. These regulations establish the framework for the operation, delivery, and security of postal services across the country. Below is a summary of key licensing and regulatory requirements.
Postal Licensing Requirements
Any organization wishing to provide postal services in South Sudan must obtain a license from the NCA. This includes both reserved postal services, such as the collection and delivery of letters and postcards, and unreserved postal services like courier services, parcel delivery, and electronic bill payments.
Delivery and Acceptance of Postal Articles
Postal articles are considered delivered when they are placed in the recipient's private letterbox, left at their residence or office, or handed to an authorized individual at a hotel or other lodging. Similarly, postal articles are officially received when deposited in a posting box or handed over to an authorized postal service employee.
Issuance and Sale of Postage Stamps
The South Sudan Postal Corporation, as the public postal licensee, is responsible for issuing high-quality postage stamps. These stamps must be designed to prevent replication and align with the philatelic goals of South Sudan. The public postal licensee may also enter into agreements with other entities for the sale of postage stamps, subject to NCA approval.
Prohibited Articles and Postal Security
Certain items, such as explosives, dangerous substances, and articles prohibited by law, are not allowed to be sent via post. Postal licensees must take reasonable steps to improve mail security and prevent postal crimes, including mail violations, illicit trafficking, and the use of postal services for criminal activities.
Universal Postal Service Obligations
The NCA ensures that universal postal services are provided consistently and affordably across South Sudan. The public postal licensee is primarily responsible for delivering these services, which may include basic postal functions and other services as deemed necessary by the NCA.
Compensation for Loss or Damage
Postal licensees must develop and submit their compensation policies to the NCA. Compensation is typically limited to the market value of the postal article, especially in cases of insured items. However, compensation is not provided for prohibited articles or items that contravene postal regulations.
Offences and Penalties
Violating the postal service regulations, such as sending prohibited items or failing to comply with licensing requirements, is a serious offense. Offenders may face fines up to USD 100,000 or imprisonment for up to one year, or both