Optimizing the Sweet Potato Supply Chain in Zimbabwe Using Discrete Event Simulation: A Focus on Production, Distribution, and Market Dynamics

Jean-Claude Baraka Munyaka (), Olivier Gallay, Mohammed Hlal, Edward Mutandwa and Jérôme Chenal
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Jean-Claude Baraka Munyaka: School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Environmental Engineering Institute, Urban and Regional Planning Community, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, Bâtiment BP—Station 16, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
Olivier Gallay: Department of Agricultural Business Development and Economics, University of Zimbabwe, 630 Churchhill Ave, Harare 00263, Zimbabwe
Mohammed Hlal: Center of Urban Systems (CUS), University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P), Ben Guerir 43150, Morocco
Edward Mutandwa: Department of Operations, Faculty of Business and Economics (HEC Lausanne), University of Lausanne, Quartier UNIL-Chamberonne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
Jérôme Chenal: School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Environmental Engineering Institute, Urban and Regional Planning Community, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, Bâtiment BP—Station 16, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 21, 1-29

Abstract: This study leverages a Discrete Event Simulation (DES) model to optimize the sweet potato supply chain in Zimbabwe, focusing on production, distribution, and market dynamics under varying climate conditions. The integration of climate data into the simulation model reveals significant insights into the resilience of different sweet potato varieties, particularly highlighting the suitability of yellow-skinned sweet potatoes for harsh climates due to their high resilience and drought resistance. However, market preferences still favor white-skinned varieties despite their vulnerability to climate extremes. The DES model identifies key bottlenecks, particularly in cultivation and transportation, that hinder supply chain efficiency. To address these challenges, the study emphasizes the importance of targeted interventions, such as improving access to irrigation, strengthening pest management, and adopting community-based resource-sharing approaches. These strategies are critical for enhancing both the resilience and efficiency of the supply chain. Additionally, the study highlights the urgent need for adaptive strategies to mitigate the effects of drought on agricultural productivity, especially in regions that heavily rely on crops like sweet potatoes. Overall, this research offers strategic insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to improve food security and agricultural productivity in Zimbabwe, as well as in other countries with similar climate challenges.

Keywords: discrete event simulation; sweet potato; supply chain; Zimbabwe; optimization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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