ASSESSMENT ON THE STRATEGIES FOR PROMOTING AN EFFECTIVE SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT AMONG BUSINESS OWNERS IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Supply Chain Management (SCM) is a critical factor in improving the operational effectiveness and competitive advantage of organisations operating in diverse sectors. Effective supply chain management is crucial for sustainable growth and development in Cameroon, a nation with a diversified economic landscape including agricultural and industries (Kumar, Singh, & Shankar, 2016). Nevertheless, although its significance, several enterprises in Cameroon face obstacles in enhancing their supply chain operations, resulting in inefficiencies, escalated expenses, and diminished competitiveness in both domestic and global marketplaces. The intricacies of the business environment in Cameroon, marked by limits in infrastructure, legal restrictions, and regional variation, further the challenges in implementing efficient supply chain strategies (Emmanuel, 2019). Significant challenges to flawless supply chain operations are posed by factors such as poor transportation networks, unstable power supply, and bureaucratic roadblocks. Furthermore, the nation's dependence on imported goods for certain important commodities highlights the need of effective supply chain management in guaranteeing prompt delivery and accessibility of items to satisfy customer needs. In light of a growing number of rivals, local firms in Cameroon are compelled to undertake organisational restructuring in order to enhance the quality of their goods and services, minimise costs, and promptly respond to market dynamics. Additionally, these businesses must effectively manage their supply chain (Lagat, Koech, & Kemboi, 2016). Cameroonian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) have significant difficulties in navigating domestic competition when it comes to Chinese products (Michael, 2019). In order to effectively confront this competition, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) must establish efficient cooperation with their customers and suppliers, while also striving to maintain competitiveness in terms of cost, quality, innovation, and delivery. Enterprises have encountered significant challenges in meeting client expectations pertaining to timing, variety, quality, and pricing. Attaining exceptional levels of performance need ongoing focus and exertion to guarantee the longevity of a corporation. An efficient supply chain strategy is crucial for SMEs to overcome these issues and achieve success in implementing SCM (Omoruyi and Mafini, 2016). The Critical Success Factors (CSFs) of Supply Chain Management (SCM) include a diverse range of techniques aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency and competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This research has identified 12 critical success factors (CSFs) for supply chain management (SCM) based on existing literature (Oparinde, 2019). We have undertaken further analysis to examine the impact of supply chain management (SCM) efforts implemented by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Cameroon on their overall performance. Performance issues have been evaluated using the Balanced Score Card (BSC) methodology. The Balanced Scorecard (BSC) method is widely used and serves as the fundamental basis for framework development (Osayuwamen & Chengedzai, 2016). Based on this framework, the critical success factors (CSFs) of supply chain management (SCM) adoption result in enhanced performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Cameroon across many categories, as determined by the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) methodology. According to Purna (2015), the performance metrics included in this study consist of customer service and happiness, internal company operations, financial performance, and innovation and growth. Based on this criterion, we establish the fourth hypothesis for our empirical investigation. Prior research has not comprehensively examined the influence of critical success factors (CSFs) on many performance indicators, as is the case with the current study.  Therefore, the researcher sought to  assess the strategies for promoting an effective Supply Chain Management among business owners in Cameroon. 

1.2 Statement of the problem

The function of Supply Chain Management (SCM) is of utmost importance in ensuring the profitability and long-term viability of organisations operating in diverse sectors. Nevertheless, there is a notable disparity in comprehension and execution of efficient supply chain management (SCM) tactics among firm proprietors in Cameroon. The lack of expertise in this area presents several difficulties, including suboptimal operational processes, escalated expenses, delayed product delivery, and diminished levels of client satisfaction (Radwan & Kassem, 2016).

The insufficient application of supply chain management (SCM) methods among company owners in Cameroon may be attributed to many issues. There are several factors that contribute to the challenges faced by business owners in Cameroon. Firstly, there is a lack of understanding among many business owners regarding the significance of supply chain management (SCM) and the potential advantages it can bring to their operations. Secondly, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which constitute a substantial proportion of businesses in Cameroon, frequently encounter limitations in resources that impede their capacity to invest in SCM technologies and processes (Remus, 2016). The infrastructure in Cameroon, encompassing transportation networks and communication systems, may lack adequate development to facilitate effective supply chain management (SCM) practices. Consequently, this leads to bottlenecks and inefficiencies throughout the supply chain. The supply chain in Cameroon is fragmented, with numerous intermediaries and stakeholders operating autonomously, posing challenges for coordination and integration. Additionally, there may be a scarcity of skilled profes

In order to tackle these difficulties, it is essential to conduct a thorough evaluation of the current tactics used to foster efficient supply chain management (SCM) among company owners in Cameroon. Through the identification of obstacles and potential advantages, policymakers, industry participants, and entrepreneurs may work together to create customised strategies that improve the effectiveness, adaptability, and competitiveness of supply chains across Cameroon's economic environment. Hence, the need to assess the strategies for promoting an effective Supply Chain Management among business owners in Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess the strategies for promoting an effective Supply Chain Management among business owners in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

Analyze the existing SCM strategies implemented among business owners in Cameroon.

evaluate the effectiveness of existing SCM strategies implemented by business owners in Cameroon.

Identify the key barriers encountered by business owners in implementing effective supply chain management strategies in Cameroon.

Ascertain the strategies necessary to enhance the effective Supply Chain Management among business owners in Cameroon.

1.4 Research Questions

The research questions have been prepared to guide the study

What are the existing SCM strategies implemented among business owners in Cameroon?

How effective are the  existing SCM strategies implemented by business owners in Cameroon?

What are the key barriers encountered by business owners in implementing effective supply chain management strategies in Cameroon?

What are the strategies necessary to enhance the effective Supply Chain Management among business owners in Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

Findings from the study can inform policymakers about the challenges and opportunities in supply chain management within Cameroon. This can lead to the development of supportive policies and initiatives that create an enabling environment for businesses to adopt effective supply chain practices, ultimately contributing to economic growth and development.

The study contributes to the body of knowledge on supply chain management, particularly in the context of Cameroon. By examining and evaluating different strategies, it adds to the understanding of what works best in the local business environment, providing valuable insights for academics, practitioners, and policymakers.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on assessing  the strategies for promoting an effective Supply Chain Management among business owners in Cameroon.  Empirically, the study will analyze the existing SCM strategies implemented among business owners in Cameroon, evaluate the effectiveness of existing SCM strategies implemented by business owners in Cameroon, identify the key barriers encountered by business owners in implementing effective supply chain management strategies in Cameroon and ascertain the strategies necessary to enhance the effective Supply Chain Management among business owners in Cameroon.

1.7 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.8 Definition of terms

Supply Chain Management (SCM): The management of the flow of goods, services, information, and finances from the point of origin to the point of consumption in order to meet customer requirements efficiently. 

Business Owners: Individuals or entities who own and operate businesses. In the context of this topic, business owners refer to entrepreneurs, managers, executives, or decision-makers responsible for overseeing the operations and strategic direction of businesses operating in Cameroon.