KISARA NICHOLAS ODIWUOR2026-06-102025-06https://repository.mua.ac.ke/handle/123456789/2342The efficiency of logistics companies in Kenya is heavily dependent on the strength and reliability of supply chain linkages. However, impediments such as poor infrastructure, customs delays, regulatory bottlenecks, and limited technological integration continue to disrupt the iv seamless flow of goods and services. These challenges not only increase operational costs but also undermine service delivery, competitiveness, and customer satisfaction. Understanding the effects of these impediments is crucial for developing strategies that enhance supply chain resilience and improve overall logistics performance in the country. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of impediments in supply chain linkages in logistics companies in Kenya, with reference to Dalsey, Hillblom and Lynn (DHL) Kenya. The study assessed the effect of political instability, global market dynamics, government policies and infrastructure quality on supply chain linkages at DHL Kenya. The Transaction Cost Theory, the Resource Based View Theory and Supply Chain Management Theory will be applied in this study. The study target population was 74 employees within the supply chain department. Descriptive research design was adopted. The use of census as a study sampling method was adopted to include the entire target population in the study data collection process. The use of questionnaires was used to collect data. The data was analyzed through quantitative method and presented through tables. The finding of this study established a connection between political instability, global market dynamics, government policies and infrastructure quality on supply chain linkages. The study concludes that, customs authorities in politically unstable countries often operate inefficiently due to corruption, lack of resources, or frequent policy changes. This results in prolonged clearance times, lost or damaged shipments, and additional fees, all of which negatively impact the reliability of cross-border supply chain linkages. Trade agreements influence logistics operations in that, when these agreements are altered or terminated, logistics firms must adjust to new tariffs, documentation requirements, and route restrictions. These abrupt shifts can disrupt partnerships with suppliers and clients, leading to uncertainty and reconfiguration of existing supply chain linkages. Proactive government policies reduce transit delays, increase transparency, and build trust among supply chain partners. Logistics companies operating under such conditions are better positioned to forge strong, long-term linkages with suppliers, customers, and international logistics networks. Well-paved roads, clear signage, and optimized routing technologies ensure timely delivery to end customers. In contrast, congested or poorly planned city layouts reduce delivery efficiency, increase costs, and lead to customer dissatisfaction, thereby weakening downstream supply chain effectiveness. It is recommended that, logistics companies should develop alternative supply chain routes and modes of transportation to ensure continuity during political unrest. By using a mix of road, rail, air, and sea transport, firms can maintain operations even if one channel is disrupted. Logistics firms should adopt trade analytics platforms to monitor international market trends, trade flows, and customer preferences. These insights help anticipate changes in global demand, supply chain bottlenecks, and emerging risks or opportunities. Embracing digital platforms for customs declarations, licensing, and cargo tracking can reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies. This will help these companies to minimize human error, speed up clearance times, and improve transparency in the supply chain. The use of innovative solutions like electric bikes, drones, and route optimization software, particularly in congested or underdeveloped urban areas should be adopted to help these companies bypass infrastructure gaps to reduce delivery time.Thesis