Institutional and user perspectives on digital supply chain transformation in Zimbabwe’s public health sector: Barriers to enhanced visibility

Abstract

Background: This study examines how digital supply chain transformation can enhance public health logistics in Zimbabwe, a country facing systemic infrastructure and resource limitations. While digitalisation promises increased transparency, better inventory management and timely delivery of medical supplies, widespread adoption remains challenging. Barriers such as poor infrastructure, financial constraints and low technological literacy limit progress.
Objectives: To identify the key systemic and human factors influencing digital health supply chain adoption in Zimbabwe and to propose strategies for leveraging digital transformation to strengthen public health logistics.
Method: Employing a qualitative desk review, the study draws on Institutional Theory and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). It analyses literature, policy documents and reports to identify both systemic and human barriers to the adoption of digital health technologies.
Results: The findings reveal that reliance on manual processes and limited digital literacy perpetuate inefficiencies and stockouts, hampering health service delivery. Main obstacles include weak policy enforcement, fragmented systems, infrastructure gaps and low acceptance of technology. Adoption of innovations like blockchain and e-procurement could improve transparency if accompanied by institutional reforms.
Conclusion: Strategic investment in digital infrastructure, workforce training and coherent policy is crucial to the success of digital health initiatives. Integrating infrastructure, capacity building and institutional reform is essential to overcoming barriers and realising the benefits of digital transformation in Zimbabwe’s public health logistics.
Contribution: This article analyses barriers to digital supply chain transformation in Zimbabwe’s public health sector, emphasizing infrastructural, institutional, and human resource challenges. It highlights the importance of strategic reforms, capacity building, and policy support to enhance visibility, efficiency, and health outcomes through context-specific digital solutions.