The Capabilities of Blockchain Technology in Enhancing Supply Chain Management in the Tea Sector in Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the potential of blockchain technology to enhance supply chain management in Kenya’s tea sector, addressing persistent challenges such as limited information sharing, poor traceability, and logistical inefficiencies. Despite advancements in supply chain practices, issues like adulteration, volatile market demands, and transparency gaps continue to undermine efficiency and competitiveness. The research highlights the role of blockchain-enabled decentralised data-sharing, which offers immutable records, improved control, and strengthened stakeholder trust. Through blockchain-based smart contracts, stakeholders can achieve realtime visibility, automate transactions, and maintain quality standards without intermediaries. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating structured questionnaires and indepth interviews with 156 respondents from tea processing companies. Findings reveal that adoption barriers include complex stakeholder dynamics and the geographical dispersion of tea farms. The study underscores the need for collaboration among small-scale farmers, processors, and government agencies to harness blockchain’s full potential. Key research questions explore the specific blockchain features that enhance supply chain effectiveness, the role of stakeholder trust, and implementation challenges. The findings demonstrate block chain’s transformative potential in building a more resilient and sustainable tea supply chain in Kenya. The study concludes that blockchain can significantly improve transparency and operational efficiency, while recommendations call for further research on its economic implications and integration with emerging technologies.