The Role of Delivery Reliability on Port Supply Chain Performance at Zanzibar Port Corporation

Abstract

Delivery reliability is a critical determinant of port supply chain performance, many developing ports continue to face operational inefficiencies that undermine their competitiveness. Zanzibar Port Corporation, which handles over 95% of the island’s trade, experiences persistent challenges in timely and accurate cargo delivery. These inefficiencies result in delays and reduced customer satisfaction, which negatively affect the overall efficiency and competitiveness of the port supply chain. Guided by the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model and Resource-Based View Theory, the current study examined the effects of delivery reliability on port supply chain performance. It focused on key delivery reliability dimensions including on-time delivery, order accuracy and tracking efficiency. A descriptive research design was employed, with structured questionnaires administered to 74 randomly selected port stakeholders. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Findings revealed that on-time delivery (B = 0.718, Beta = 0.783, p = 0.000) and tracking efficiency (B = 0.173, Beta = 0.183, p = 0.022) significantly improve port supply chain performance. while tracking efficiency and order accuracy require improvement. The model showed strong explanatory power (R² = 0.973), meaning delivery reliability dimensions explain most performance variation. The study concludes that while ZPC has effective practices in place, targeted improvements in tracking systems and standardization of operational procedures are necessary to enhance reliability. The findings have practical implications for port managers and policymakers, emphasizing that investments in internal processes and digital infrastructure under the Zanzibar Economy can strengthen supply chain efficiency and support sustainable regional trade growth.