Green logistics practices, infrastructure quality, operational flexibility and logistics operational efficiency of logistics firms in Uganda

Abstract

This study examined the mediating role of operational flexibility in the relationship between green logistics practices, infrastructure quality and logistics operational efficiency among logistics firms in Uganda. Anchored in the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory, the research conceptualized infrastructure quality and green logistics practices as strategic resources, with operational flexibility serving as a dynamic capability that enhances efficiency. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, targeting 216 respondents from 72 logistics firms within the Kampala Metropolitan Area. Data was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings revealed that infrastructure quality is the most significant predictor of logistics operational efficiency (β = 0.357, p < 0.001) and exerts a substantial indirect effect through operational flexibility (β = 0.300, p = 0.002). It also demonstrated a strong direct influence on operational flexibility (β = 0.746, p < 0.001). Conversely, green logistics practices such as fuel efficiency initiatives, route optimization and reverse logistics had a significant direct effect on logistics operational efficiency (β = 0.245, p = 0.008) but no significant impact on operational flexibility (β = 0.034, p = 0.819). The model accounted for 81.2% of the variance in logistics operational efficiency (R² = 0.812) and 59.6% in operational flexibility (R² = 0.596), indicating high predictive power. These findings suggest that while sustainable practices contribute to efficiency through cost reduction and reliability, infrastructure quality remains fundamental to both efficiency and adaptability. The study recommends that logistics firms and policymakers prioritize investments in resilient transport infrastructure and adopt digital innovations such as GPS tracking and telematics to enhance flexibility and competitiveness within Uganda’s logistics sector.