Impact of Warehouse Operations on the Onions Supply Chain Management in Singida Urban District
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t5259Abstract
The study focused on the assessment of the factors influencing onion’s supply chain in Singida Urban District. The aim was to examine the impact warehousing operations on onions supply chain. A cross-sectional survey design was employed. Data was collected from 100 respondents; whereby farmers, whole sellers and retailers filled the questionnaires. The interviews were conducted to key informant respondents who work with agriculture division of the district and village leaders. The study found that about 66.7% of respondents agreed that there is a small percentage of facilities available for storage of onions harvest while about 70% of respondents agree that the warehouses are very expensive to rent. Results from two-way ANOVA suggested that, high standard procedures and high storage costs are the major factor that influenced variability of supply chain supported by statistical evidence. The study recommended that District management could review and formalize policies and regulations that guide and support supply chain actors in onions business interaction with farmers to avoid price increases, create awareness and fair play in onions supply chain and assuring transparency in the process. Besides, it is imperative that the local government actively invest in research and development initiatives focused on onion production and supply chain optimization. Collaborating with agricultural research institutions and universities, the government can support research projects aimed at developing improved onion varieties with enhanced shelf life and disease resistance. These research efforts should also explore innovative and cost-effective post-harvest technologies to reduce onion losses during storage. By fostering a culture of innovation and research in onion farming practices, the local government can contribute to long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the onion supply chain in the urban district.
Keywords: Warehouse operations, supply chain management, Singida Urban District, Tanzania
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