Integrated Engineering Material Management System for Chinese-Funded Infrastructure Projects in Ethiopia: A Study on Procurement, Logistic Warehousing and Lifecycle Optimization

Abstract

Chinese-funded infrastructure projects in Ethiopia have significantly contributed to national development but often face critical inefficiencies in engineering material management. This study examines procurement, logistics, warehousing, and material lifecycle management practices in selected Chinese-funded energy and transport projects. Using a mixed-methods approach, primary data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with project managers, procurement officers, warehouse supervisors, and logistics personnel, while secondary data were obtained from project documents and reports. Findings reveal fragmented procurement processes, inadequate logistics coordination, limited warehouse capacity, manual inventory systems, and poorly integrated material lifecycle management. These challenges result in material shortages, delays, cost overruns, and resource wastage. The study highlights the lack of standardized digital tracking systems and insufficient capacity building for local stakeholders as key contributors to inefficiency. Based on these findings, the research proposes a unified procurement planning system, automated warehouse management, digital lifecycle tracking, enhanced logistics coordination, capacity building, regulatory harmonization, and sustainable material management practices. Implementing these recommendations is expected to improve material flow efficiency, reduce project costs, and promote sustainability in Chinese-funded infrastructure projects in Ethiopia. Integrated Engineering Material Management System for Chinese-Funded