Pandemic outbreaks and food supply chains in developing countries : a case of COVID-19 in Zimbabwe

The COVID-19 pandemic took a devastating human and economic toll on the entire globe. Although Africa had fewer number of cases compared to all other continents, the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on food supply chains was devastating, yet the pathways through which it affected the continent remain poorly documented and understood. With this background in mind, this study explored the ways in which food supply chains were disrupted by COVID-19 in Zimbabwe. The study used a qualitative methodology and a descriptive survey with 32 participants from food supply chain networks. The results reveal that due to COVID-19 restrictions, food supply chains were disrupted right from the production stage, transportation stage up to access markets. More specifically, COVID-19 restrictions negatively affected production and supply of food items. Secondly, transportation of food supplies was adversely affected as haulage companies as well as local suppliers and importers had challenges getting lockdown exemption letters. Thirdly, COVID-19 restrictions increased the demand for food stuffs as consumers stockpiled to ensure their food security. Lastly, COVID-19 pandemic increased food prices as consumer expenditure on food items increased. This study contributes to the body of knowledge since, to the best knowledge of the authors, it is the first study to identify and address the consequences of COVID-19 pandemic on food supply chains in Zimbabwe. This study is also significant to policy makers and practitioners in the optimization of food supply chains in possible subsequent waves and future pandemics.