Stakeholder Collaboration and Coordination in Health Commodities Forecasting and Quantification: A Case Study of Namibia’s Central Medical Stores

Moses Waiganjo; Ruusa Megameno Ambambi

Authors

Moses Waiganjo Author
Ruusa Megameno Ambambi Author

Keywords:

Stakeholder Collaboration, Supply Chain Coordination, Health Logistics, Multi-Stakeholder Engagement, Public Health, Namibia

Abstract

Background

Effective forecasting and quantification in public health supply chains are not isolated technical exercises but complex social processes requiring robust collaboration. This study explored the roles and dynamics of collaboration and coordination among stakeholders involved in these processes at Namibia’s Central Medical Stores (CMS).

Methods

A qualitative case study was conducted. Data were gathered through 15 in-depth interviews with a purposively selected range of stakeholders from CMS, donor agencies, program departments, and health facilities. Documentary analysis of meeting minutes and reports supplemented the interviews. Thematic analysis was performed using ATLAS.ti.

Results

Key stakeholders include CMS’s forecasting unit, procurement, program departments, health facilities, donors, and technical working groups. Their roles range from providing data and setting programmatic targets to financing and technical oversight. While collaboration exists, particularly in donor-funded vertical programs, it is challenged by a centralized approach, infrequent and crisis-driven communication, limited data sharing, and under-representation of frontline facilities in decision-making.

Conclusion

Collaboration at CMS is present but fragmented and sub-optimal. Strengthening it requires institutionalizing regular, structured multi-stakeholder forums, decentralizing the forecasting process to incorporate facility-level data, and leveraging technology for seamless information exchange. A shift from a centralized, transactional model to a networked, collaborative one is essential for a resilient and responsive supply chain.

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