World Post Day and 125 Years of CI Postage Stamps
The Cayman Islands Postal Service (CIPS), under the Ministry of District Administration and Home Affairs (MDAHA), proudly joins the global postal community in observing World Post Day 2025, held annually on 9 October to commemorate the establishment of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in 1874. The celebration was formally declared by the UPU’s 1969 Congress in Tokyo and serves as a global reminder of the post’s enduring relevance in people’s lives and its impact on economic and social development.
This year’s theme, “#PostForPeople: Local Service. Global Reach.”, reflects the essential and evolving role of postal services in delivering public value at both the community and international levels. The 2025 observance is especially meaningful for the Cayman Islands, as it coincides with the 125th anniversary of the country’s first postage stamps, issued in 1900.
Reflecting on the moment, the Honourable Minister for District Administration and Home Affairs, Nickolas DaCosta, JP, MP, said the occasion was about recognising service that often goes unseen but never goes unappreciated. “For 125 years, the Postal Service has quietly delivered for this country — connecting families, enabling commerce, and maintaining a presence in the life of nearly every Caymanian,” he said, noting the unique reach and dependability of CIPS. “This special anniversary and World Post Day together are a chance to pause and acknowledge the people who keep this service running with integrity, every single day.”
Postmaster General Sheena Glasgow added that while "the postal landscape continues to change, the foundation of service from the CIPS remains steady. World Post Day reminds us that even in a digital world, people still rely on the post for access, connection, and trusted delivery,” she said, reflecting on "the days when the mail arrived on boats from husbands and fathers working at sea. Postmen then traveled on donkey or horseback to deliver the mail to the districts, as it often contained money, or even better, presents, that the seamen would send home to their families. Contrast that with today, where it's less about paper mail; however, we still like to receive those goods. These days, it's now from online shopping. As we mark 125 years of stamp history, we’re also reaffirming our commitment to service, innovation, and relevance — both locally and globally.”
World Post Day 2025 encourages all postal operators to reflect on their role in community life, while continuing to embrace the future. CIPS remains proud to serve the people of the Cayman Islands and to uphold the UPU’s values of universal service and international cooperation.
For questions related to postal services or stamp history, please contact the CIPS Customer Service team at CIPSCustomerCare@gov.ky or WhatsApp +1 (345) 916-6535. To stay connected with the Ministry of District Administration & Home Affairs, follow us on social media @mdahacayman or by visiting our website at https://www.gov.ky/mha/.
