Factors Affecting Humanitarian Logistics Cluster at the Last-Mile Delivery: The Case of Selected Humanitarian Organizations in Addis Ababa
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Date
2024-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study sought to investigate factors affecting the performance of the logistics cluster at last-mile delivery by taking selected humanitarian organizations under the cluster of the United Nations World Food Program in Ethiopia. A quantitative research approach along with an explanatory research design was adopted. The survey was conducted on professional employees namely directors, managers, coordinators, programmers, and logistics and supply officers. A sample of 192 valid and usable responses was collected from targeted respondents. Stratified random sampling techniques were applied to select the respondents from each stratum. Primary data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. A multiple linear regression inferential analysis was adopted to examine the relationship between the identified factors and their effects on the performance of the humanitarian logistics cluster with the help of the SPSS 22.0 application. The results of the findings revealed that infrastructural facilities and flexibility of governmental policy have the highest effect on logistics clusters at last-mile delivery. Nonetheless, organizational capacity and stakeholder commitment contributed moderate effects while cultural orientation had a positive but the least significant effect. The cluster approach of humanitarian logistics at last-mile delivery is affected by several factors to hinder the effective and efficient delivery of life-saving aid to the needy in time. The government authorities, country directors, and logistics managers are advised to collaborate and coordinate with different stakeholders like United Nations agencies, and international and local organizations to facilitate infrastructures and financial support for the smooth delivery of inventories to the disaster areas.
Keywords: Humanitarian Aid Organizations, Humanitarian Response, Logistics Cluster, Natural and Man-made disasters, Non-governmental Organizations, World Food Program