Effectiveness of logistics in humanitarian service provision case study of Gongolamboto bombs disaster -Tanzania

This study was conducted in Gongo La Mboto Area in Temeke District Dar es Salaam - Tanzania. The overall objective of this study is to get an insight in the performance degree and contribution of logistics in the provision of humanitarian service. Specifically, the study analyzed the situation of logistics during Gongo La Mboto bombs’ disaster; examined factors that influence and affect the effectiveness of logistics in Government and Non–Governmental Organizations and identified the strategic approach for tackling the problems associated with logistics in Gongo La Mboto bombs disaster. Data were collected using interviews, questionnaires, observation and documentary analysis. The sample for this study consisted of three companies and 80respondents. Data analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 18 by first coding the information collected and then entered in the computer program. Descriptive statistics were analysed for qualitative and quantitative data thematically by relating them to research questions. Data was presented in tabulation graphs to illustrate clearly the findings. The salient study findings was that there was a huge gap in logistics: for instance the condition of the tent, majority of respondents 56 (70%) reported that tents were in poor conditionwhich implies weaknesses in the Supply chain system. Pertaining to the ability to handle technology and warehouses, majority of respondents 71 (88.75%) were of the views that technology and warehouses were poorly handled; .Concerning the food storage equipment by households, majority of respondents 73 (91.25%) ranked the food storage equipments in households as poor. From the findings, this study concludes that the human relief/aid in Gongo la Mboto was not met adequately. Logistical service quality which implies logistical cost effectiveness in humanitarian aid provision, reduction in Service response time to crisis, appropriate of Logistical response to crisis and accessibility to proper logistical services. Once these indicators are successfully achieved then effectiveness of logistics in humanitarian aid provision can be seen through human lives saved, sufferings being reduced and human dignity being maintained This study recommends future research on modalities of utilising modern mass media and Technology in disaster preparedness, response and management in Tanzania. Additionally, it is important to research on the means of enhancing coordination and collaboration among partners in disaster preparedness in Tanzania.