Assessment of Supply Chain Disruption Risk Management Practices Among Pharmaceutical Manufacturers in Ethiopia
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Date
2025-10
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and persistent global shocks have highlighted the fragility of pharmaceutical supply chains, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Ethiopia. This thesis assesses the supply chain disruption risk management (SCDRM) practices among pharmaceutical manufacturers in Ethiopia. Using a descriptive survey complemented by qualitative key informant interviews, the study provides a mixed-methods analysis that enriches both breadth and depth of insight. Quantitative data were obtained from 89 respondents across pharmaceutical firms (80.9% response rate), while qualitative interviews with 6 senior executives yielded context-specific understanding and validated the survey findings. The study further incorporates another layer assessment; evaluating the perceived effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies. Findings reveal that forex shortages, regulatory constraints, and logistics disruptions are the most frequently cited and severe risks. However, firms’ mitigation approaches remain largely fragmented and reactive. While practices are emerging, widespread implementation is hampered by financial, institutional, and technological limitations. Perceptions of strategy effectiveness vary widely, with gaps in strategies adoption. The study concludes that enhancing pharmaceutical supply resilience in Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector requires integrated policy support, and organizational capacity-building. This research contributes to the scarce empirical literature on SCDRM in LMICs and offers practical insights for industry leaders, regulators, and development partners committed to strengthening pharmaceutical manufacturing supply chains.
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Supply chain disruption, disruption risk, SCDRM, perceived effectiveness, implementation challenges