Demand and Supply Planning Unit
The Demand and Supply Planning Unit (DSPU) plays a central role in coordinating MSD’s supply planning activities, ensuring optimal stock management and efficient delivery of health commodities nationwide. Acting as the “traffic controller” of MSD’s inventory, the unit oversees stock monitoring, forecasting, and replenishment to maintain a smooth balance between demand and supply.
Working closely with the Ministry of Health, MSD Zones, and other stakeholders, DSPU continuously updates procurement plans and inventory levels based on national forecasts and additional health facility requirements. The unit conducts regular reviews and tracking to mitigate risks of overstocking or understocking—ensuring resources are efficiently utilized and wastage is minimized.
DSPU also spearheads Operational and Supply Planning (O&SP) meetings that bring together supply chain teams to discuss stock availability, pipeline management, and replenishment. Through collaboration with the ICT Unit, the team leverages data analytics and the ERP system to enhance forecasting accuracy, inform decision-making, and implement new data-driven initiatives such as the IMPACT approach.
By maintaining a proactive, analytics-driven approach, the Demand and Supply Planning Unit supports MSD’s strategic mission of delivering essential health commodities efficiently, reliably, and sustainably across Tanzania.
