Comparative analysis of the challenges of generic engineering logistics to humanitarian logistics in disaster response and relief support in South Africa

Logistics management has been extensively researched and implemented in the private sector, but gradually gaining traction in the humanitarian sector. Humanitarian organizations, particularly Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are the primary vehicle through which donors channel their contributions but many of these organizations face logistic challenges in effectively getting relief materials to the intended users. The purpose of this paper is to identify the key challenges affecting aid agencies in South Africa. A comparative analysis of the challenges of generic engineering logistics to humanitarian logistics in disaster response and relief support system in South Africa was also conducted. The findings from the research survey shows that there is an awareness of the importance of humanitarian logistics in the sector, but the results also show that only half (50%) of the participants of the survey reported that they have a logistics professional employed in their organization. Furthermore, only 50% of the participants of the survey indicated that their organization has a preparedness plan in place in the event of an emergency. Other challenges identified are: lack of funds; difficulty to obtain real time information and poor knowledge management system. The study also suggests that learning and forging closer ties with private organizations is an effective means of overcoming some of the identified challenges. In comparison to the generic engineering logistics, the humanitarian sector is encouraged to benchmark their operations with similar private sector to improve their services.