The International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development 2025, held at Kigali Serena Hotel, hosted an insightful side session on Sustainable Supply Chain Management (SCM) on March 11, 2025. This session examined the crucial role of sustainable supply chain management (SCM) in achieving environmental, social, and economic sustainability objectives. It also marked the official launch of the Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management at the University of Kigali, sponsored by Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation, Germany.
Participants during the Sustainable Supply Chain session
Logistics and SCM participants during the Sustainable supply Chain session
An engaging panel session brought together renowned experts in logistics and supply chain management to discuss key innovations, challenges, and policies necessary for achieving sustainability in global and regional supply chains. The discussion covered strategies for minimizing environmental impact, overcoming implementation challenges, and leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and resilience.
Logistics and SCM experts during Sustainable supply Chain session
The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Martin Gachukia and Dr. Joseph Akumuntu, both faculty members in Supply Chain Management at the University of Kigali. The panel members included Prof. Alfonso Duran, Deputy Director of the Mechanical Engineering Department at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Spain; Mr. Jacob Clemence, IPRC Rwanda; Muganbagye Mundaneh, Pioneer Logistics Rwanda; and Gilbert Habagusenga from the Institute of Logistics and Transport.
The panel addressed crucial aspects of sustainable supply chain management through a set of thought-provoking questions: How does sustainable supply chain management contribute to broader environmental and economic sustainability goals? What are the most promising innovations in sustainable supply chain management today? What are the most significant barriers preventing companies from fully adopting sustainable supply chain practices? What policies and regulations should governments and International bodies implement to encourage sustainable supply chain practices? How can universities and research institutions contribute to advancing sustainable supply chain management? What trends are shaping the future of sustainable supply chain management in Africa and globally?
The panelists shared insights into how sustainable SCM practices can reduce carbon footprints, enhance circular economy models, and promote ethical sourcing and labor practices. Discussions also highlighted real-world case studies and policy recommendations that could drive sustainable transformation in the logistics and supply chain sector.
Prof. Alfonso Duran highlighted the essence of “Overcoming Supply Chain Vulnerabilities” to “Supply Chain Challenges and Capacity Building.” The presentation focused on the role of online and hybrid education in lowering access barriers to higher education, which resonated with the Kühne Foundation’s Learn Logistics aims.
Logistics and SCM participants during the Sustainable supply Chain session
Launch of the Centre of Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management
A significant highlight of the session was the official launch of the Centre of Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management at the University of Kigali. This new center, supported by Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation, aims to:
- Advance research and innovation in sustainable logistics.
- Provide specialized training programs in green supply chain management.
- Foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government to drive sustainability.
Dr Ronald Kwena, The Conference Chair and Director of Research and Innovation at University of Kigali attending the sessions
The Conference Chair and Director of Research and Innovation at the University of Kigali, Dr Ronald Kwena, emphasized that the establishment of this center aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable business practices and will serve as a knowledge hub for supply chain professionals in Africa and beyond. Dr Kwena also happens to be the Project Manager of the Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Kigali and Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation, within which the Centre of Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management is hosted.
Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation representatives, UoK Management and faculty during the MoU Signing Ceremony
The Sustainable Supply Chain Management panel session emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into logistics operations for organizations. With expert insights, policy recommendations, and real-world solutions, the discussion provided a roadmap for advancing sustainable supply chains in Africa and worldwide. The launch of the Centre of Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management further underscores the University of Kigali’s commitment to fostering innovation and research in sustainable development.
The University of Kigali extends its sincere gratitude to all panelists, moderators, and participants for their valuable contributions and looks forward to continued collaboration in driving sustainable supply chain solutions.
