DSV & UNICEF: Improving Access to Children's Supplies
A global transport and logistics company, DSV, has partnered with UNICEF, the humanitarian aid organisation, to provide rapid emergency responses and strengthen global supply chains.
DSV will deliver the supplies during emergencies, using its supply chain network, and provide flexible funding to ensure children worldwide receive the timely support they need.
UNICEF identifies that, in emergencies, children bear the brunt of the suffering as they face increased risks of disease and malnutrition.
DSV’s flexible funding commitment will allow the organisation to mobilise resources faster, in some crisis situations aid will reach the children in 24 hours. This will guarantee that supplies reach those who need the supplies most, regardless of their location.
The partnership leverages DSV’s expertise as a global supply chain solution provider, utilising its reach across over 80 countries and its vast network of 75,000 employees.
“In 2023, UNICEF delivered 2.79 billion vaccine doses to 105 countries, supporting national vaccination targets and outbreak response,” says UNICEF Director of Private Fundraising and Partnerships, Carla Haddad Mardini.
“However, millions of children around the world missed out on life-saving vaccines, which indicates the significant challenges within global supply chains, especially in remote areas.
“This new partnership with DSV targets these vulnerabilities to ensure the rapid deployment of essential supplies.
“This will allow us not only to address immediate needs, but also to work towards long-term improvements in how we deliver critical supplies to children.”
A partnership to strengthen global supply chains
In global health, 40% of resources are lost due to inefficiencies often linked to workforce challenges.
It is clear that enhancing the capabilities of the supply chain workforce is a key part of the partnership as a result.
To be successful, it therefore relies on the UNICEF Supply Chain Maturity Model.
This model evaluates and improves key operational aspects of supply chain management, including budgeting and planning, transportation, distribution and storage, and end-user monitoring.
The resulting findings are expected to be used by governments across Latin America to develop plans to strengthen the national supply chain.
On the partnership, DSV Group CEO Jens H. Lund says, “The world faces continued challenges that require effective solutions and support. This is why we have chosen to partner with UNICEF to ensure efficient humanitarian logistics for crisis-affected areas.”
“A pre-established in-kind flight agreement is a cornerstone of this strategic partnership, enabling the delivery of critical supplies to children and their families anywhere in the world when it is needed.
“In the event of an emergency, DSV is ready to support UNICEF in delivering life-saving supplies within the first 72 hours to help children survive and recover following a crisis.”
The partnership builds upon DSV’s previous work with UNICEF in 2020, when DSV signed the World Economic Forum Supply Chain & Transport Industry Charter in support of UNICEF and COVAX Vaccine Distribution.
UNICEF estimates that nearly a quarter of the world’s children were living in, or fleeing from, conflict zones.
This creates an urgent need, which is often not fulfilled due to damaged infrastructure and supply chain insecurity- meaning strong partnerships such as this one are vital in order to quickly overcome complex logistical and transport issues.
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