ENHANCING OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY AND SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE IN THE FISH PROCESSING INDUSTRY: AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO NYANZA PERCH LTD, UGANDA

Abstract

The fish processing industry represents a critical component of global food systems and export-oriented economic development, particularly in emerging economies. However, operational inefficiencies and supply chain disruptions continue to challenge organizational sustainability due to the perishable nature of fish products, logistics constraints, and inadequate cold chain infrastructure. This study investigates operational efficiency and supply chain challenges in the fish processing industry with special reference to Nyanza Perch Ltd, Uganda. The study aims to evaluate operational practices, identify major supply chain bottlenecks, and propose strategic measures for improving organizational performance and resilience. A descriptive and analytical research design was adopted. Primary data were collected from 120 employees using a structured questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale. Secondary data were obtained from journals, industry reports, and company documents. Statistical tools including descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, Chi-square test, regression analysis, and ANOVA were employed using SPSS software. The findings reveal that labour utilization, productivity, wastage control, and time management significantly influence operational efficiency. Regression analysis confirms that operational variables explain 86.5% of operational efficiency outcomes (R² = 0.865), while supply chain variables explain 79.8% of organizational performance outcomes (R² = 0.798). Transportation delays, raw material shortages, and cold chain maintenance issues emerged as major operational barriers. The study concludes that integrated supply chain systems, digital transformation, cold chain modernization, and lean operational strategies are essential for improving operational sustainability and competitiveness.