Performance Measurement Framework for the Potato Supply Chain in Kenya
Abstract
In Kenya, potato is the second most important food crop after maize in terms of production
volumes. Potato makes an important contribution to food and nutrition security and rural
incomes. Globally, potato ranks fourth as the most important crop after rice, wheat and corn.
In the USA and Canada potato is considered the most important vegetable. Part of the reason
why potato is so popular is that it can be eaten in very many forms. These forms include
French fries, mashed potatoes, crisps, wedges and many other variations. Potato also contains
vitamin C apart from starch and other minerals. In many cases, food or agricultural
commodities are grown far away from the point of demand creating a huge supply chain
management challenge. A proper supply chain in thus essential to address these challenges.
This study sought to determine the applicability of the supply chain performance
measurement model proposed by Aramyan, Ondersteijn, van Kooten, and Lansink (2005) for
quantifying agri-food chains in Kenya. The focus was on the potato supply chain. In the
model, the key measurement parameters are efficiency, flexibility, responsiveness and food
quality. A descriptive research design was used to test the measurement framework and the
population taken was the potato crisps processors in Nairobi. The study established that
efficiency, flexibility, responsiveness and food quality are important in the performance of the
potato supply chain. The study recommends a structured adoption of performance
measurement for the potato supply chain. This can be achieved by designing effective
performance dashboard based on the conceptual framework. This can be adapted to the
context of the firms in question to be most effective as a tool for decision making and to
provide overall visibility of the supply chain.
Publisher
University of Nairobi
Description
Thesis