Dar es Salaam - The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has called on courier operators providing services without licensing to register immediately with the regulator and acquire the necessary licenses.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam Authority's Director General Dr. Jabiri Bakari, said some service providers, including passenger bus operators, have been operating courier services without proper authorisation which contravenes the service requiremnets. He urged these firms to obtain the necessary licenses to comply with regulations.

He explained that obtaining licenses for parcel and cargo transportation service providers enhances their accountability to the citizens they serve.

"As the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the courier services sector, we recognize the vital role they play in supporting economic activities. It is our duty to remind both existing and potential providers of courier services of their obligation to register their services with TCRA and renew their licenses if they have expired," insisted Dr. Bakari.

The regulator has launched a four-month campaign that runs from March through June 2023, to enhance public awareness about safer courier services.

Dr. Bakari emphasized that the campaign is designed to raise awareness among both users of courier services and service providers about their respective rights and obligations.

"The public awareness campaign aims to encourage users to opt for duly authorised and registered providers of courier services who have established offices, storage facilities for parcels, a proven record of efficiency, safety, and integrity in service delivery," he added. This ensures that users' safety is prioritised, especially in the case of any challenges that may arise during the provision of services.

"Operating courier services without a license is contrary to established legal procedures," he reminded, adding that those who need to register such public services can submit their applications online through a dedicated portal that can be accessed at www.tanzaniteportal.go.tz.

"We have greatly improved our services, and all license applicants can obtain their licenses through the Tanzanite portal," he emphasised.

TCRA issues licenses for postal and courier operators in six categories, including international, East Africa, intra-city, and inter-city.

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