Overview
Supply chain governance and accountability issues are multifaceted, encompassing challenges such as corruption, weak regulatory frameworks, and inadequate enforcement mechanisms. Corruption is pervasive in supply chain operations, with instances of bribery, kickbacks, and favoritism compromising fair competition and inflating costs. Weak regulatory oversight and enforcement contribute to accountability gaps, allowing unethical practices to go unchecked. Limited transparency and information sharing hinder visibility and traceability across supply chains, exacerbating risks related to quality, safety, and compliance. Ineffective supplier relationship management and stakeholder engagement further impede efforts to promote accountability and responsible supply chain practices.
What We Do
Through rigorous analysis and empirical studies, we assess the root causes of governance failures and accountability gaps within supply chain networks. Leveraging interdisciplinary expertise and stakeholder engagement, we co-create innovative solutions tailored to the unique context and challenges faced by African countries. Our research informs evidence-based policy recommendations, capacity-building initiatives, and advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing transparency and accountability mechanisms, and promoting ethical practices across the supply chain.
Key Research Focus Areas
Here are some key research focus areas:
- Regulatory Frameworks and Compliance: Investigating the effectiveness of existing regulatory frameworks and compliance mechanisms in ensuring transparent and accountable supply chain practices.
- Corruption Prevention and Control: Examining the prevalence of corruption within supply chains, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing strategies to prevent and mitigate corrupt practices.
- Public Procurement Practices: Studying the governance of public procurement processes, including the challenges of accountability and transparency.
- Ethical Supply Chain Management: Researching the integration of ethical standards and practices within supply chains, including corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ethical sourcing, and fair labor practices.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Participation: Analyzing the role of stakeholder engagement in supply chain governance.
- Technology and Digitalization: Investigating the potential of digital technologies, such as blockchain, to improve supply chain transparency, traceability, and accountability.
- Performance Monitoring and Evaluation: Developing frameworks and tools for monitoring and evaluating the performance of supply chain governance systems.
- Impact of Governance on Supply Chain Efficiency: Examining the relationship between governance practices and supply chain efficiency.