Factors affecting financial performance in supply chains in Africa: A systematic literature review

This study employs a systematic literature review and content analysis to consolidate findings from studies that utilise partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) in exploring financial performance in supply chains in Africa. Based on data obtained from 9 Scopus-indexed journal articles published between 2020 and 2024, the study identified factors affecting financial performance in supply chains in Africa. The findings show that financial performance is negatively affected by internal green supply chain practices and green human resource management (HRM) practices. While, green supply chain management (SCM), supply chain environmental cooperation, green human capital, green logistics practices, supply chain collaboration, logistics and supply chain innovations, sustainable SCM, firm capabilities and green performance showed a significant positive direct impact. Mediators include green HRM, supply chain environmental cooperation, green SCM practices, green logistics practices, sustainable SCM, green radical product innovation, firm capabilities and green performance. Other factors such as ISO 14001 certification, firm size, age, and type act as control variables. Interestingly, the study revealed that only green HRM yielded contradictory findings towards financial performance. This review highlights key factors influencing financial performance in supply chains within Africa. It urges effective utilisation of the identified factors for enhancing financial performance. Also, the study calls for future research across African countries and establishing moderating variables using PLS-SEM.