Introduction

In the face of escalating global crises, effective Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management stands as the critical backbone enabling the swift and efficient delivery of life-saving aid to affected populations. This specialized field encompasses the planning, implementation, and control of the flow and storage of goods, services, and information from points of origin to the points of consumption, specifically within complex and often volatile humanitarian contexts. From procuring essential supplies and managing warehousing to ensuring rapid transportation and last-mile distribution, every link in the humanitarian supply chain is vital for minimizing suffering and maximizing impact. Without highly skilled professionals capable of navigating the unique challenges of disaster zones and conflict areas, humanitarian efforts risk delays, waste, and a failure to reach those most in need. This essential training course focuses on equipping professionals with the expertise to master Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to empower logistics managers, supply chain coordinators, program managers, field staff, and aspiring humanitarian practitioners with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to excel in humanitarian logistics and supply chain operations. Participants will gain a deep understanding of humanitarian supply chain principles, explore various procurement and warehousing strategies, learn about efficient transportation and distribution methods, and acquire skills in managing risks and leveraging technology in emergency settings. The course will delve into topics such as needs assessment in emergencies, emergency procurement, inventory management, fleet management, customs and import procedures, cold chain management, last-mile delivery, and the use of technology for supply chain visibility. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management, participants will be prepared to enhance operational efficiency, ensure timely aid delivery, and ultimately contribute more effectively to saving lives and alleviating suffering in humanitarian crises.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Humanitarian Logistics Managers
• Supply Chain Coordinators
• Field Operations Managers
• Program Managers in humanitarian organizations
• Emergency Response Team Members
• Procurement and Sourcing Specialists
• Warehouse and Inventory Managers
• Transportation and Fleet Managers
• Customs and Import Professionals in NGOs
• Aspiring professionals in humanitarian aid.

Objectives

• Understand the unique challenges and principles of humanitarian logistics and supply chain management.
• Learn to conduct rapid needs assessments to inform supply chain planning in emergencies.
• Acquire skills in emergency procurement and vendor management.
• Comprehend methodologies for effective warehousing and inventory control.
• Explore strategies for efficient transportation and last-mile distribution in complex environments.
• Understand the importance of information management and technology in humanitarian supply chains.
• Gain insights into risk management and security considerations in logistics operations.
• Develop a practical understanding of ethical considerations and accountability in humanitarian supply chains.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain

• Defining humanitarian logistics and its critical role in emergency response.
• Key differences between commercial and humanitarian supply chains.
• Overview of the humanitarian supply chain cycle: needs, planning, sourcing, delivery, monitoring.
• The humanitarian imperative: speed, accountability, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Ethical considerations in humanitarian logistics.

Module 2: Needs Assessment and Logistics Planning in Emergencies

• Rapid needs assessment methodologies in crisis situations.
• Translating identified needs into logistics requirements.
• Developing logistics strategies and operational plans for emergency response.
• Capacity mapping and resource mobilization.
• The role of preparedness in effective emergency logistics.

Module 3: Emergency Procurement and Sourcing

• Principles of emergency procurement: speed, flexibility, compliance, value for money.
• Establishing emergency vendor lists and framework agreements.
• Local, regional, and international sourcing strategies.
• Navigating procurement challenges in complex and volatile environments.
• Ethical procurement and anti-corruption measures.

Module 4: Warehousing and Inventory Management

• Principles of effective warehouse management in humanitarian contexts.
• Site selection, layout, and storage best practices.
• Inventory control systems: tracking, rotation (FIFO/LIFO), loss prevention.
• Managing different types of humanitarian cargo (e.g., medical, food, NFI).
• Cold chain management for temperature-sensitive goods.

Module 5: Transportation and Fleet Management

• Modes of transportation in humanitarian contexts: road, air, sea, rail.
• Planning and optimizing transport routes and schedules.
• Fleet management: vehicle maintenance, fuel management, tracking systems.
• Cross-border logistics, customs procedures, and import/export regulations.
• Overcoming infrastructure challenges in remote or disaster-affected areas.

Module 6: Last-Mile Delivery and Distribution

• Strategies for reaching affected populations in remote and insecure areas.
• Design of distribution points and methodologies (e.g., fixed, mobile, household).
• Managing beneficiary registration and verification for equitable distribution.
• Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) logistics and digital payment systems.
• Ensuring dignity, safety, and participation in distribution processes.

Module 7: Information Management and Technology in Logistics

• The importance of data and information flow in humanitarian supply chains.
• Utilizing logistics management information systems (LMIS).
• Leveraging technology for supply chain visibility and tracking (e.g., GPS, mobile apps).
• Data analysis for decision-making and performance monitoring.
• Digital solutions for beneficiary registration and distribution monitoring.

Module 8: Risk Management, Security, and Coordination in Logistics

• Identifying and assessing risks in humanitarian logistics (e.g., security, natural hazards, political instability).
• Developing risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
• Security management for logistics personnel, assets, and convoys.
• Coordination mechanisms with other humanitarian actors, government, and military.
• Accountability frameworks in humanitarian logistics: reporting and transparency.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 5 working days before commencement of the training.