This archive report was first published on 14 May 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt global supply chains, Kenya's economic growth remains more vulnerable than ever to external factors.
According to Collins Musyoka, a lecturer at Mount Kenya University, the pandemic has caused significant disruptions in supply chains, leaving them more vulnerable than before.
"During this period of Covid-19, all industries that contribute to the country's economic growth, such as the manufacturing sector, agricultural sector, and health sector, are experiencing supply chain vulnerability," Musyoka said.
However, Musyoka believes that building strong supply chain resilience can help reduce supply chain complexity and overcome risks. He suggests that strategies such as supply chain re-engineering, strategic sourcing, integrating global supply chains, risk awareness, operational flexibility, agility, and strategic supplier partnership or collaboration can be used to build a strong supply chain.
"As the government puts up post-Covid-19 measures to revive the country's economy, building a strong supply chain resilience is one of the most important measures it should consider," Musyoka said.
By improving supply chains, Kenya can increase manufacturing performance, ensure enough supply of raw materials, and create more employment opportunities. This, in turn, can maximize customer value and competitive advantage, ultimately improving supply chain performance.
"Therefore, all stakeholders, including the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, Export Promotion Council, World Trade Organisation, UNCTAD, etc., should work towards a common goal of building strong supply chain resilience, which is a main contributor to economic growth," Musyoka said.
By achieving this goal, Kenya can revive and build local, regional, and global economies, ultimately achieving its Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to transform the world.
