Running Title:
Technology and Sustainable Supply Chains for Urbanisation
Abstract
As African cities continue to expand, ensuring sustainable urbanisation requires efficient supply chain systems capable of meeting rising demands for goods, services, and infrastructure. Traditional supply chain models in many African urban centres are often characterized by inefficiency, lack of transparency, poor logistics coordination, and environmental externalities such as excessive carbon emissions. These challenges undermine economic competitiveness, social equity, and environmental sustainability. Technology-driven supply chain management offers transformative solutions by leveraging digital platforms, automation, data analytics, and blockchain to improve urban logistics, reduce waste, and promote sustainability. This study explores how technology-enabled supply chain management can drive sustainable urbanisation in Africa. It examines the role of emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, and blockchain—in improving supply chain efficiency, transparency, and resilience. The paper also highlights the contribution of smart logistics, green transportation, and digital procurement platforms in reducing urban congestion and environmental impacts. Findings suggest that while adoption of digital supply chain technologies is growing, challenges such as high implementation costs, inadequate infrastructure, skills shortages, and regulatory barriers limit their effectiveness. The study recommends policy frameworks that incentivize technology adoption, capacity-building programs, and private–public partnerships to scale sustainable supply chain innovations. By linking technology, supply chain management, and urban sustainability, this study provides insights for businesses, policymakers, and city planners on fostering resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible urban economies.
Keywords: Technology, Supply Chain Management, Urbanisation, Sustainability, Africa,
