Navigating Supply Chain Gaps in Tanzania During COVID-19: Insights from the Journal Club

Presenter: Nabila Hemed

Presented on: 8 June 2024

Sallwa, A. A. (2024). Supply chain gaps analysis during COVID-19 pandemic - the case of medical supplies in Tanzania. Journal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management, 14(1), 82-89. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHLSCM-05-2022-0057

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In a recent session of the Supply Chain Journal Club, participants delved into the intriguing findings of an article titled "Supply chain gaps analysis during COVID-19 pandemic - the case of medical supplies in Tanzania." This study, originating from Tanzania’s College of Business Education, meticulously examined the disruptions in the medical supply chain during the pandemic. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the discussion and insights derived from the article.

Overview

The article investigated the supply chain gaps that emerged in Tanzania during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on medical supplies. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combined structured questionnaires and individual interviews to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. The aim was to identify specific gaps, understand how COVID-19 contributed to these gaps, and analyze their impact on the effectiveness of medical supplies.

Key Findings from the Study

Supply Chain Gaps

The study identified several significant supply chain gaps during the pandemic:

1. Target Gaps: Failure to meet intended targets for medical supplies due to inaccurate demand forecasting.

2. Time Gaps: Delays in the distribution and delivery of medical supplies, exacerbated by global and local logistical challenges.

3. Coverage Gaps: Inadequate distribution leading to underserved areas.

4. Supply Chain Inelasticity: Lack of flexibility to adapt to sudden changes in demand, highlighting the need for resilient supply chains.

5. Policy Gaps: Absence of effective policies to manage medical supplies during pandemics.

6. Distribution Channel Gaps: Inefficiencies in the channels used for distributing medical supplies.

7. Relationship Gaps: Weak partnerships among supply chain actors.

Contributions of COVID-19 to Supply Chain Gaps

The study found that the pandemic significantly contributed to the identified supply chain gaps through:

1. Economic Tension: Financial strain affecting supply chain operations.

2. Business Shocks: Uncertainty and inability to plan effectively.

3. Disruption of Demand: Sudden changes in demand patterns.

4. Increased Business Risk: Higher risks leading to reduced investments.

Impact on Medical Supplies

The regression analysis in the study revealed that:

• Supply chain gaps had a negative impact on the availability and effectiveness of medical supplies.

• Existing challenges were exacerbated by the pandemic, reducing the overall effectiveness of the supply chain.

• Determinants of supply chain gaps were critical in improving performance.

Discussion Points from the Journal Club

The journal club discussion expanded on these findings, emphasizing several critical areas:

Resilience and Collaboration

Participants underscored the importance of building resilient supply chains and fostering collaboration among supply chain actors to mitigate the impact of future disruptions. They highlighted the need for robust policies and investment in technology to enhance agility and flexibility.

Policy Development

The discussion emphasized the need for clear, actionable policies that can be effectively financed and implemented. There was a consensus that policies should not only be developed but also integrated into organizational structures and strategies to ensure readiness for future emergencies.

Investment in Technology

The role of technology in enhancing supply chain resilience was a major point of discussion. Participants agreed that investments in technology should go beyond data visibility to include tools that improve demand forecasting, planning, and overall supply chain agility.

Sustainable Practices

The importance of sustainable practices in building resilient supply chains was also highlighted. Participants discussed how adopting green supply chain practices and integrating them into the broader supply chain strategy could help in managing disruptions more effectively.

Conclusion

The journal club discussion provided valuable insights into the challenges and potential solutions for managing supply chain disruptions in Tanzania during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings from the article and the subsequent discussion underscored the need for resilient, collaborative, and technologically advanced supply chains to ensure the continuous availability of medical supplies during emergencies.