A leaner, meaner lifeline: How supply chain efficiency boosts the performance of humanitarian aid in Kenya
Abstract
Purpose: This study examines how supply chain
efficiency influences the performance of humanitarian aid
organizations in Kenya, focusing on the moderating role of
organizational characteristics such as size, age, and structure.
Methodology: A mixed-methods approach was employed,
combining quantitative data from a census survey of 330
humanitarian organizations with qualitative insights from
supply chain managers. Data were analyzed using descriptive
statistics, regression analysis, and thematic content analysis to
assess supply chain efficiency's direct and moderated effects on
organizational performance. Results: Findings reveal that
supply chain efficiency significantly impacts the performance of
humanitarian aid organizations (β=0.547, p<0.05), accounting
for 43.6% of the variance in performance. When organizational
characteristics are included, the explanatory power increases to
66.5%. Qualitative analysis highlights that waste elimination,
cost optimization, and robust internal controls are critical for
improving efficiency. Corruption and diversion of resources
were identified as key forms of waste, while mechanisms such
as audits and checks and balances effectively mitigate these
issues. Theoretical Contribution: The study extends the Theory
of Constraints to the humanitarian context, demonstrating that
addressing organizational bottlenecks and inefficiencies can
substantially enhance aid delivery outcomes. It also integrates
lean supply chain principles into the unique challenges of
humanitarian logistics. Practical Implications: The results
underscore the importance of adopting lean management
practices, investing in modern supply chain technologies, and
tailoring supply chain strategies to organizational
characteristics. These actions can enhance responsiveness,
accountability, and resource utilization, ultimately improving
the impact of humanitarian operations in crisis settings
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