21 Jun 2021

BotswanaPost has added a virtual post box (VPB) to its list of innovative products. 

In a recent interview, BotswanaPost communications manager, Ms Tshepo Maphanyane, said VPB was part of BotswanaPost’s social obligation and embracing of a digitisation culture.

Ms Maphanyane said VPB gave customers a smart and convenient way to manage their postal mail remotely, stressing however that it was not meant to replace the traditional post box, but rather enhance it by offering customers flexibility and freedom to embrace both.  

She said the service came at a time when the world was still dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic where companies had to operate within the prescribed protocols. 

Ms Maphanyane explained that to use VPB, customers should register their mobile phone numbers to be used as the designated post box number to receive mail and related services from BotswanaPost. 

She said the customer’s mobile number would then be linked to a post office of their choice for mail delivery. 

Ms Maphanyane highlighted that the customer also had a choice to opt for home or office delivery, which would be securely monitored via a tracking system and safely stored in the post office for collection. 

“This will facilitate and enable E-Commerce for the diverse markets we serve, as it gives the customer power in terms of cost and tracking of one’s mail,” she said. 

She stated that VPB offered privacy of mail as only the owner would be allowed to collect, unless he or she has directed someone to collect on their behalf, adding that it was also more affordable than the conventional postal box and saved customers time. 

Ms Maphanyane said the service was available for any individual above the age of 18 as well as business owners at competitive rates.  

“The virtual post box is in line with our mission of providing affordable convenience through high quality profitable postal and diversified products and services where we leverage on technology as a major business sustainability anchor in the face of diminishing traditional postal business,” she said. Ends