Supply chain management challenges in the South African public sector

Abstract

This article articulates the challenges that restrain supply chain management implementation in the South African public sector. Supply chain management (SCM) promotes South Africa’s New Public Management model by means of improved financial management and is a strategic tool for management and enhancement of its procurement practices. Since its inception (2003), training and workshops have been ongoing across various spheres of government. However, despite the effort in capacitating practitioners with appropriate skills and knowledge, SCM execution still remains a challenge. The article utilised a cross-case analysis of case studies conducted for the certificate in the Advanced Programme in Sourcing and Supply Chain Management at the University of South Africa (UNISA). Purposive sampling technique was used to select the cases. The findings of the article reveals that SCM has been fully employed across all spheres of government and customised policies developed as required by the SCM policy. Notwithstanding the employment of the concept, there are challenges that restrain full execution to achieve its potential. These challenges stem from, among other things, non-compliance with SCM policies and regulations; fraud and corruption; lack of proper knowledge and skills etc. The article concludes by suggesting a framework that could improve the public sector supply chain and ensure efficient and effective SCM implementation.