Influence of relief supplies distribution on resilient disaster relief operations: Evidence from humanitarian-organization’s relief practitioners

Yohana Arsen Rutaba; Noel Peter Mrope; Leonada Raphael Mwagike

doi:10.65453/ajbmr.v15i2.1506

Authors

Yohana Arsen Rutaba Department of Business Administration and Management, College of Business and Economics, University of Dodoma, United Republic of Tanzania.
Noel Peter Mrope Department of Procurement and Logistics Management, Mzumbe University, Morogoro, United Republic of Tanzania.
Leonada Raphael Mwagike Department of Procurement and Logistics Management, Mzumbe University, Morogoro, United Republic of Tanzania.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65453/ajbmr.v15i2.1506

Keywords:

Relief supplies distribution, resilient disaster relief operations, disaster relief practitioners and humanitarian organizations.

Abstract

This study examined the influence of relief supplies distribution on resilient disaster relief operations in Tanzania, focusing on how various distribution factors enhance effective humanitarian outcomes. The study employed an explanatory research design. Data were collected via questionnaires and interviews from 192 humanitarian practitioners across Dodoma, Dar es Salaam, and Kigoma, sampled from a population of 369 using Slovin’s formula. Both qualitative and quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 27, with multiple linear regression applied to assess the impact of six relief supply distribution variables (RSD1–RSD6). Relief supply distribution variables significantly influenced resilient disaster relief operations (p = 0.000). The model showed an R-squared of 0.71 and an adjusted R-squared of 0.69, indicating strong explanatory power. Among the predictors, RSD1 (β = 0.386), RSD4 (β = 0.332), and RSD2 (β = 0.314) were the strongest contributors. The findings are limited to three Tanzanian regions—Dodoma, Dar es Salaam, and Kigoma—which may somehow restrict generalisability but may be appropriate for developing economies. Humanitarian organisations should implement needs-based, data-driven distribution strategies and formalise collaboration through memoranda of understanding (MoUs), standard operating procedures (SOPs), and joint contingency plans. Enhanced relief distribution promotes community resilience by ensuring timely and equitable aid, reducing human suffering, and strengthening social cohesion between affected populations and aid agencies. This study empirically supports coordination theory within humanitarian logistics by demonstrating the direct impact of relief supply distribution on disaster resilience.

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