Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to examine the effectiveness of communication of Supply Chain Management (SCM) policies and procedures by SCM officers and senior managers in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality of the North-West Province, South Africa. Design/Method/Approach: The study employed a mixed-methods research design. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with senior municipal managers, while quantitative data were obtained via structured questionnaires distributed to departmental officials. A combination of purposive and stratified sampling techniques was used. Findings: The results revealed a disparity between senior managers’ awareness of SCM policies and the actual communication and implementation of these policies among departmental officials. Key challenges included lack of training, poor communication flow, unclear guidelines, and inadequate knowledge and competencies at different levels of the municipality. Theoretical Implications: This research contributes to the body of knowledge on public sector supply chain communication, particularly in the context of emerging economies. It highlights the theoretical significance of aligning internal communication practices with institutional policy frameworks. Practical Implications: The study underscores the necessity of regular training, effective internal communication strategies, and clear accountability mechanisms to improve compliance and performance in municipal SCM processes. Originality/Value: The paper offers a novel empirical insight into SCM policy communication within local government structures in South Africa, an area that remains underexplored in the literature. It provides practical recommendations for improving SCM practices in resource-constrained municipal environments. Research Limitations/Future Research: The study was limited to five local municipalities within a single district in South Africa. Future research could involve comparative studies across provinces or countries to generalize findings and assess cross-regional differences in SCM communication effectiveness. Paper Type: Empirical JEL Classification: H57, H83, L38, M12, R58