International Journal of Business and Social Science

ISSN 2219-1933 (Print), 2219-6021 (Online) DOI: 10.30845/ijbss

Coronavirus Disease Outbreak and the Supply Chain of Selected Small and Medium Manufacturing Enterprises in Kenya
Evans T. Mwasiaji (PhD), Ambrose O. Jagongo (PhD), James O. Ogutu (PhD)

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of Coronavirus disease outbreak on the supply chain of small and medium manufacturing enterprises in Kenya. The study established that 61.6% percent of the sampled firms have experienced disruption in their supply chain, with 63.7% of the sampled enterprises preparing to make adjustments including sending seasonal staff away until the situation improves. 54.5% are operating below usual capacity, while 98.5% of the sampled firms projected stock out on inputs. 63.6% have found it difficult to ship in products due to lack of pre-shipment inspectors who are unavailable due to government movement restrictions in source markets especially in China. The study concluded that Coronavirus disease pandemic has the potential to impact on Kenya’s gross domestic product, the government’s big four agenda and the sustainability development goals. The study recommends policy initiatives directed at supporting SMEs in Kenya.

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