The Buzz: Tackling Returns and Sustainability

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, we continue our popular series, Supply Chain Leadership Across Africa as host Scott Luton explores how public-private partnerships are reshaping access to healthcare across Africa, particularly when it comes to affordable, quality medicines. Joined by Anderson Ti-Timi of VillageReach and Trip Allport of XS2Meds, we dive into the complex pharma value chain and the urgent need to build up local private distributors through improved procurement systems, working capital access, and internal infrastructure. Anderson shares insights from the front lines—including a potential new partnership in the Democratic Republic of the Congo—and emphasizes the importance of trust, visibility, and scalable systems. Trip highlights how lessons from 15 years of outsourcing distribution can now be applied across the full value chain to accelerate innovation, integration, and cost reduction. Together, they underscore how collaboration among governments, donors, manufacturers, and distributors is the key to achieving universal health coverage. Whether you’re in global health, supply chain, or looking to make a difference, this conversation is a call to build smarter, stronger, and more connected systems.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources…

  In today’s new episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Sophia Rivas Herrera welcome Dr. Yossi Sheffi, Director of the MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, to the show. Listen in to a discussion covering a range of topics including the evolving skillsets required for supply chain professionals, the impact of AI on the industry, and the importance of understanding supply chain dynamics for all managers. Dr. Sheffi emphasized the need for risk-taking in business, the practical challenges of sustainability, and the critical role of supply chain knowledge in maintaining competitiveness. The conversation also touched on the future of tariffs and trade policies under the current administration, highlighting the complexities and potential impacts on global supply chains. Join us for this must-listen episode, for anyone looking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of supply chain management.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas Herrera, and produced by Joshua Miranda.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during the show: Watch on YouTube Connect with Dr. Sheffi Learn more about our hosts   Want more Supply Chain Now? We know you can’t get enough Supply Chain…