Abstract:
This study examines the impact of material management practices on the organizational
performance of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) Logistics Department.
Material management, including procurement, inventory control, storage, and
interdepartmental collaboration, is essential for efficient resource flow, cost reduction, and
operational effectiveness. In military logistics, timely material availability is critical for
mission success, making effective material management indispensable.
Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected through structured questionnaires (345
employees) and semi-structured interviews across four departments: Supply, Ordnance,
Maintenance, and Transport. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and
inferential statistics, including regression analysis.
Results show a strong positive relationship between material management practices and
organizational performance, with procurement, inventory, storage, and collaboration
explaining 79.2% of performance variance. Procurement (regression coefficient: 0.268),
inventory (0.292), storage (0.262), and interdepartmental collaboration (0.282) were key
drivers. Collaboration emerged as the most influential factor, emphasizing the importance of
teamwork and communication.
Challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, outdated systems, and poor coordination were
identified. Recommendations include adopting advanced technologies, modernizing storage
facilities, and enhancing training.
This study underscores the importance of material management in military logistics and
offers actionable insights for improving ENDF Logistics Department performance. By
addressing challenges and implementing best practices, the department can enhance
operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve mission readiness.
