Influence of cultural dimensions on sustainable supply chain performance: the moderating role of green supply chain practices among manufacturing SMEs in Nairobi

Abstract

Given the rapidly evolving global business environment, cultivating sustainability-focused cultures is crucial for integrating sustainability into all levels of the organization. This study examined the influence of cultural dimensions on sustainable supply chain performance under the moderating role of green supply chain practices among manufacturing SMEs in Nairobi. Grounded in stakeholder and resource dependence theory, the research adopts a quantitative approach through a descriptive cross-sectional survey, drawing responses from 233 SMEs registered with the Kenya Association of Manufacturers. Using structured questionnaires, the study targeted supply chain and operations managers, with data analyzed through descriptive statistics and multiple regression techniques. The study revealed that both power distance and individualism significantly and positively influence sustainable supply chain performance among manufacturing SMEs in Nairobi. However, the moderating role of green supply chain practices was found to be statistically insignificant, with the interaction between power distance and GSCPs and between individualism and GSCPs showing no meaningful effect. These findings suggest that cultural dimensions directly drive SSCP, while GSCPs strengthen overall practices without significantly altering cultural effects. Individualism emerged as the stronger driver of sustainability by promoting innovation and independent decision-making, while power distance supported compliance and structured execution when balanced appropriately. Although green supply chain practices did not significantly moderate the cultural effects, they remained critical in enhancing overall SSCP. Therefore, SMEs should align their cultural traits with structured green supply chain practices to maximize environmental, social, and economic performance. These insights contribute to the growing discourse on sustainable supply chain management, providing practical recommendations for practitioners, researchers, and policymakers. Keywords: Green Supply Chain, Individualism, Performance, Power Distance, Sustainable Supply Chain