Browsing by Author "DAKA, Japhet"

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    Evaluating the challenges faced by MSMEs in implementing Supply Chain Management Practices in Lusaka’s Central Business District (CBD)
    (2026) DAKA, Japhet
    This study evaluated the challenges of MSMEs in the adoption of SCM practices in Lusaka CBD. MSMEs are an important part of the country's economic development because they generate employment, are sources of innovation, and help alleviate poverty. Unfortunately, most of them face operational inefficiencies due to structural limitations that militate against their growth. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, where 50 owners, managers, or supervisors were randomly sampled for quantitative and qualitative data using questionnaires and interviews. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data and ascertain the key drivers influencing SCM adoption. Three significant challenges were found to affect MSMEs: weak supplier relationships, financial constraints, and limited technological adoption. Although most MSMEs reported frequent supplier engagements, the lack of formalized relationships and regular communication dampened supply chain reliability. In addition, financial constraints were found to be the biggest limitation to investing in logistics, inventory management, and technology. While a majority of MSMEs have been found to use simple digital devices, the high cost of sophisticated systems and low digital literacy hindered integrating the businesses fully into technology. Based on this, enhancing SCM practices among MSMEs calls for improving financing gaps, enhancing supplier collaboration, and encouraging digital transformation. Accordingly, the study suggests targeted interventions through affordable financing schemes, digital literacy training, formalization of supplier agreements, and institutional support from the ZDA and the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development. It is expected that improved SCM will enhance not only the business efficiency of MSMEs but also their competitiveness, resulting in sustainable economic growth in Zambia. Key words: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs); Supply Chain Management (SCM); Financial Constraints; Technology Adoption; Supplier Relationships