Managing Food Insecurity Through Knowledge-based Supply Chains: Case of the Food Industry in Zimbabwe

Abstract This paper discusses the influence and relevance of cutting-edge technologies in the development of a knowledge-based supply chain to enhance food security. The application of technologies is based on the background that food supply chains require real-time monitoring and effective information flow from farm to farm with regards to food availability, preservation of quality, health, safety, and accessibility of food from production to the final user. The study used a quantitative approach and drew a sample of 65 employees and suppliers from three food manufacturing organizations (Probrands, Delta Beverages, and National Foods) that are currently using various cutting-edge technologies in Zimbabwe. Further, 80 downstream consumers were drawn from the commonly known food insecure remote areas in Zimbabwe to provide a fair review of the effectiveness of the current food supply chain system (using modern technology). Results show that a number of technologies can be effectively employed when developing a knowledge-based food supply chain. These include artificial intelligence, big data analytics, the internet of things, machine-learning, robotics, additive manufacturing, or virtual reality, among others. These technologies were found to be effective in resolving supply chain management challenges. As a result of reducing supply chain management challenges, food security was found to be improved and customer satisfaction enhanced. However, in the absence of such technologies, it was found that it is difficult to develop effective and sustainable knowledge-based food supply chains in Zimbabwe. It is recommended that all food producers, intermediaries, suppliers, consumers, and other stakeholders make use of knowledge-based food supply chains that are enhanced by different technologies to ensure food security and customer satisfaction.