Strategic Factors Influencing Transport and Distribution of Petroleum Products in Kenya: A Case Study of Kenya Pipeline Company

Abstract

The transport and distribution of the petroleum products by Kenya Pipeline Company is key in the social economic development of the country. Efficiency in the transport and distribution of the petroleum products ensures that the right volumes of the products are delivered, at the right price, and in a sustainable manner. This study sought to examine the extent to which strategic factors (infrastructure, information communication and technology information) affect transport and distribution of the petroleum products. The study was anchored on resource-based theory and dynamic capabilities theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population was sourced from safety, security, maintenance, operations, Information Technology Support, senior management staff at Head Office, and Corporate Social Responsibility Staff. The study therefore used a target population of 234 staff members for the study. The sample size of the study was 148 respondents. The statistical analysis that was undertaken included the frequency distributions, chi square, correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. From the finding the study concluded that there is a positive influence of infrastructure on the transport and distribution of petroleum products. In addition the study concluded there was a positive influence of ICT on transport and distribution of petroleum products at KPC. The study recommended that all the strategic factors that is infrastructure, ICT, security, and pipeline capacity should be emphasized at Kenya Pipeline Company in order to improve on the performance of transport and distribution of the petroleum products.