Development and humanitarian supply chains are among the most complex in the world. Ensuring the delivery of supplies to children in situations of conflict, disaster or in hard to reach areas requires technical know-how, innovative solutions, collaboration, and financial resources.
The UNICEF Supply Chain involves working with industry to develop more effective formulations of medicines and products for children whilst keeping prices at affordable and quality at international standards. Every link of the supply chain is essential in ensuring vital supplies reach children.
The Supply Chain
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Definition of needs: | UNICEF and local government design the programme and decide which supplies are needed. |
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Budgeting and planning: | Planning and forecasting for the years ahead, identifying the budget and scheduling when supplies are needed. |
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Procurement: | Tendering, getting the best value, ensuring healthy markets and quality supplies, issuing purchase orders. |
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Delivery and clearance: | Pickup from suppliers. Transportation, customs clearance at port of entry. |
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Inspection: | Checking the quantity, condition and quality of goods received. |
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Warehousing and distribution: | Moving supplies through a series of in-country storage points for delivery to mothers and children. |
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Utilisation of beneficiary | Supplies locally delivered to mothers and children. |
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Monitoring and evaluation: | Closing the feedback loop – right quantity? On-time delivery? Were supplies fit-for-purpose (did they meet the need)? |
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