Procurement, Storage and Distribution Systems
The Great Zimbabwe Cultural Society of British Columbia (ZICUSO BC) recently completed a transforming project aimed at strengthening food security for community members in need. Through a partnership with CSRF, this project tackled the challenges of sourcing, storing, and distributing culturally relevant food items for black community members in BC. Here’s an overview of the key outcomes and impacts
Project Overview
The initiative was structured in three phases, each contributing to a more streamlined and responsive system. The objective was to create an efficient food procurement and supply chain directly linking ZICUSO BC with local farmers and suppliers, ultimately reducing reliance on large grocery chains. This connection enhances access to fresh, culturally significant foods for the community at reduced prices and also reducing the carbon footprint.
Key Phases and Findings
- Phase 1: Food and Supplier Research
- ZICUSO BC identified essential food items by surveying community members and analyzing dietary preferences.
- The team recommended using refrigerated containers (reefers) to store perishable items, preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of these foods.
- Phase 2: Storage and Procurement Recommendations
- Based on the foods selected, the project assessed optimal storage methods. A refrigerated container set at chiller temperatures was recommended, allowing fresh produce to be stored for up to a month.
- Phase 3: System Automation with Odoo
- ZICUSO BC reviewed off-the-shelf procurement systems and selected Odoo, an ERP platform, to streamline food procurement, inventory management, and reporting. With robust inventory control, order tracking, and supplier management features, Odoo enables ZICUSO BC to operate more efficiently and scale as community needs grow.
Sustainable Storage and Supplier Network
The project also established a reliable supplier network with local farmers and vendors who produce culturally appropriate food items. A refrigerated container and a standard storage container were procured to store food donations, allowing ZICUSO BC to extend shelf life and maintain freshness. This expanded infrastructure supports ZICUSO BC’s goal of providing nutritious, accessible food to community members every month
Impact and Next Steps
This initiative empowers ZICUSO BC to serve a growing number of families while promoting healthy diets that reflect the community’s cultural heritage. Looking ahead, ZICUSO BC plans to further refine its procurement processes, leveraging the Odoo system to improve distribution efficiency and enhance the impact on local food security.
By investing in innovative technology and community-focused solutions, ZICUSO BC is fostering food security that not only meets immediate needs but also contributes to long-term community well-being. This project has provide robust tools and infrastructure that move the food security program closer to achieve sustainability.
