Influence of Cold Chain Management on Supply Chain Performance in the Kenya Horticultural Export Sector

The study sought to establish the influence of cold chain management on supply chain performance in Kenya horticultural export sector. It was guided by three objectives: to assess the influence of cold chain infrastructure, to examine the role of temperature control, and to determine the effect of cold chain personnel on supply chain performance. A descriptive research design was adopted, and data were collected from key stakeholders in the horticultural export sector. The findings revealed that cold chain infrastructure (r = 0.712, p < 0.05), temperature control (r = 0.728, p < 0.05), and cold chain personnel competence (r = 0.693, p < 0.05) all had significant positive effects on supply chain performance. Collectively, the three variables explained 64.2% of the variation in supply chain performance (R² = 0.642). The study concluded that investing in modern infrastructure, ensuring effective temperature regulation, and enhancing personnel skills are critical in improving efficiency and competitiveness in horticultural exports. It recommended that exporters strengthen cold chain facilities, adopt advanced monitoring technologies, and prioritize staff training to minimize postharvest losses and enhance global market competitiveness.