Assessment of Challenges Faced by Food and Beverages Manufacturing Firms in Implementing Green Supply Chain Management Practices in Lusaka District
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Main Article Content

Lolelanji Sinkala 
Bupe Getrude Mwanza 

Abstract

The increasing urgency of environmental issues has prompted many organizations to adopt Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) practices as a strategic approach to promote sustainability and mitigate climate change effects, understanding the barriers to GSCM adoption is essential for enhancing operational efficiency, corporate responsibility and promoting environmental sustainability. In the context of manufacturing firms, GSCM is increasingly recognized as an essential framework that integrates environmental considerations into supply chain processes. This study aims to comprehensively assess the challenges faced by food and beverage manufacturing firms in implementing Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) practices in Lusaka District, Zambia. The primary research objectives include identifying specific internal and external challenges these firms encounter, evaluating the impact of these challenges on GSCM implementation, and proposing actionable strategies to overcome these barriers. Utilizing a quantitative methodology, data was collected through structured questionnaires administered to a sample of 150 respondents selected via stratified random sampling from various food and beverage manufacturing companies in Lusaka. This approach ensured a representative view of the industry's perspectives on GSCM challenges. Key findings indicate that internal challenges, such as entrenched company culture, inadequate management support, and insufficient employee training, significantly hinder effective GSCM implementation. Additionally, external challenges, including evolving government regulations and intense competition within the industry, further complicate the adoption of sustainable practices. The high statistical value of R-value of 0.7544 and R-Square of 0.568 indicate that the internal and external barriers account for a significant portion (56.8%) of the variability in GSCM implementation. Based on the findings, the study recommends enhancing management support through active participation in sustainability initiatives, increasing employee training programs to equip staff with the necessary skills, and reallocating adequate resources towards sustainability efforts. Furthermore, fostering stronger collaboration with stakeholders, including suppliers and regulatory bodies, is essential for creating an environment conducive to sustainable practices. This research contributes valuable insights into the complexities of GSCM implementation within the context of a developing economy, highlighting the need for tailored strategies that address both internal and external barriers to sustainability.

Article Details

Sinkala, L., & Mwanza, B. G. (2025). Assessment of Challenges Faced by Food and Beverages Manufacturing Firms in Implementing Green Supply Chain Management Practices in Lusaka District. African Journal of Management and Business Research, 19(1), 1-47. https://doi.org/10.62154/ajmbr.2025.019.01011
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