Factors Affecting the Humanitarian Supply Chain Performance of the Ethiopian Red Cross Society BY Senait Shemelis
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Date
2024-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Ethiopian Red Cross Society's (ERCS) humanitarian supply chain faces operational inefficiencies that hinder its effective aid delivery. This study aims to evaluate the impacts of technology, standardization, collaboration, and leadership on the ERCS's humanitarian supply chain performance (HSCP), and identify major performance affecting factors. The research adopted both descriptive and explanatory methods. Data collection involved a structured questionnaire distributed via Google Forms to 116 participants selected through a census method. The population comprises ERCS staff involved in supply chain management across regional offices and headquarters. Data analysis includes quantitative methods like descriptive and inferential statistics, alongside qualitative thematic analysis. Reliability and validity testing were conducted prior to collecting data to ensure the accuracy of the survey tool. The study achieved 81% response rate, indicating high engagement of respondents. Demographic findings showed a diverse workforce across regions and departments. Regarding the HSCP analysis, the result indicates that, among the independent variables, Standardization and Leadership have statistically significant positive impacts on HSCP. Collinearity statistics confirmed good relationships between factors and supply chain performance metrics. The study benefits academia to conduct in-depth studies on how specific aspects of standardization and leadership directly influence HSCP. It aids ERCS to implement and enforce standard operating procedures across all SCOs to improve efficiency. It assists in policy formulation to encourage and facilitate the standardization of HSC processes within ERCS and other aid organizations. Moreover, it helps practitioners to embrace and effectively use technology tools to monitor, manage, and optimize supply chain operations towards ensuring timely and cost-effective aid delivery.
Key words: Humanitarian Supply Chain, Ethiopian Red Cross Society, Technology, Standardization, Collaboration, Leadership