I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of my dear colleague, mentor and friend, Mr Moussibahou Mazou. He leaves behind a rich legacy in the postal sector – one marked by passion, leadership and the ceaseless pursuit of knowledge.
Hailing from Benin, but a citizen of the world and a staunch advocate for the African continent, Mr Mazou served the postal administrations of Congo, France, the Central African Republic, Gabon and Chad as a devoted public servant, teacher and leader. Holding a doctorate in Economic Sciences, specializing in Development Economics, he brought this expertise to bear in the service of postal administrations worldwide, joining the UPU as an Assistant Secretary in 1962.Mr Mazou's dedication, discernment and diplomatic manner lifted him through the ranks of the organization. Trusted by staff and members alike, he was elected to the role of UPU Deputy Director General, a post he held until his retirement in 2004. To this day, he remains the longest-serving member of the UPU's international secretariat in history, having devoted 42 years of service and leaving a lasting imprint on the organization.
Even in retirement, Mr Mazou remained a tireless member of the UPU community. A prolific writer and published author himself, he was a valued member of the judging panel for the UPU's International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People. It was also my sincere pleasure to welcome him back to the International Bureau in 2024 to celebrate the UPU's 150th anniversary. In February, he joined current UPU Deputy Director General Marjan Osvald at the UPU's Cotonou Regional Office, where it was our privilege to inaugurate a meeting room in his honour. He contributed his strength and vibrant energy to both events.
Mr Mazou, you will be dearly missed by your postal family.