FACTORS AFFECTING HUMANITARIAN LOGISTICS PERFORMANCE IN THE CASE OF THE RED CROSS SOCIETY, TIGRAI REGIONAL STATE, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

The performance of humanitarian logistics is shaped by a dynamic interplay of internal and external factors that collectively determine the efficiency, responsiveness, and reliability of aid delivery systems. This study examined the case of the Tigray Red Cross Society (TRCS) to identify and analyze the determinants of logistics performance in crisis conditions. Data were collected from 145 participants, including managers, sub-coordinators, and operational staff, using instruments adapted from validated logistics performance assessment tools and prior empirical studies. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey design was employed, integrating qualitative insights with quantitative evidence. Multiple regression analysis confirmed that all the selected independent variables—donor funding, government support, infrastructure quality, and the availability of skilled personnel—had a statistically significant and positive influence on TRCS’s logistics performance. The findings demonstrate that effective humanitarian logistics is not the product of isolated activities but rather the outcome of a coordinated integration of internal processes and external enablers. Specifically, TRCS’s ability to align core practices such as procurement, inventory management, warehousing, and transportation with strong partnerships, government collaboration, and infrastructure utilization has substantially enhanced its operational efficiency and timely response capacity. The originality of this study lies in its context specific empirical evidence from a conflict-affected region, offering insights rarely captured in humanitarian logistics research. By emphasizing the role of institutional capacity-building, sustainable donor engagement, and strategic collaboration, the study positions TRCS as a potential model for resilient humanitarian logistics in resource-constrained environments. Recommendations include targeted investments in staff training, infrastructure upgrades, sustainable funding mechanisms, and stronger stakeholder linkages. Ultimately, the study contributes to both theory and practice by presenting a holistic framework for improving logistics performance that is adaptable to other humanitarian organizations operating in complex emergency settings.