Getting down to the last mile

Getting down to the last mile

In our final episode of this season of the Supplying Inspiration podcast, we sit down with Lidia Porto and Eric Wakaria to explore the critical concept of the Last Mile Assurance (LMA) process in the UNFPA supply chain. What exactly is the “last mile,” and why is it such a vital link in ensuring that life-saving reproductive health supplies make it from global manufacturers to the hands of women and girls in need? Lidia and Eric break it down for us—discussing the real-world challenges countries face in managing supplies at the community level and how the LMA process helps address them. We also explore how LMA enhances transparency and accountability for everyone involved—from UNFPA to local partners to the donors making this work possible. Tune in to learn how the 'last mile' is so imperative to our work in Supply Chain.

Humanitarian Supplies And The Road Ahead

In this episode, we explore why humanitarian supplies are a vital pillar of resilient supply chains — and why they matter so deeply for the women and girls globally. Through a compelling case study on Mobile Clinics, we break down the Why, What, and How behind this innovative approach that’s reaching communities in crisis with essential services. We also reflect on what’s inspiring about our humanitarian efforts and why bold advocacy efforts are required to reach those who need it the most.  Tune in to discover how collective action keeps vital supplies moving — and transforms lives in the hardest-to-reach places.

Behind the Scenes – The Supply Chain Journey and Product Quality Assurance

In this episode, we sit down with Linda Serwaa, Manager of Product Quality Assurance at UNFPA SCMU, to uncover a crucial part of the supply chain: quality assurance. Linda walks us through the step-by-step process of making sure that each and every sexual and reproductive health (SRH) product meets the highest standards before reaching those who need them the most.  We also explore the broader ecosystem of partners that make quality possible: suppliers, procurement agencies, governments, and NGOs — all working together amidst challenges like funding constraints, customs delays, and operating in fragile settings. We hope you enjoy listening!

Supply Chains in Sexual and Reproductive Health

In our very first episode, we sit down with Karen Hong, Chief of UNFPA's Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU), to explore how supply chains are crucial for the distribution of sexual and reproductive health commodities and products globally. Karen shares the journey of the SCMU and how it aims to make a difference in the lives of women and girls globally, revealing the human stories behind supply systems and how innovation, empathy, and resilience are reshaping the way essential goods reach those who need them most.