Enhancing Humanitarian Fleet Performance in Ethiopia: The Role of Digital Monitoring, Cost Efficiency, and Preventive Maintenance

This study examined the role of digital monitoring, cost efficiency, and preventive maintenance in enhancing humanitarian fleet performance in Ethiopia. Humanitarian organizations depend heavily on reliable vehicle fleets to deliver services across remote and challenging operational environments; however, fleet inefficiencies, high operating costs, and frequent vehicle breakdowns remain significant challenges. The objective of this research was to assess the impact of digital monitoring systems, cost efficiency practices, and preventive maintenance on fleet performance within selected humanitarian organizations operating in Ethiopia. A quantitative research approach was adopted, and primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to fleet managers, drivers, and technical staff (N=56). The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The findings indicated that preventive maintenance significantly reduced vehicle downtime and improved fleet availability (β = 0.46, p < 0.001). Digital monitoring systems enhanced fuel control, vehicle utilization, and accountability (β = 0.41, p < 0.001), while cost efficiency practices contributed to improved budget control and operational sustainability (β = 0.34, p = 0.001). The integrated application of these three practices explained 64% of the variance in fleet performance (R² = 0.64). The study concluded that effective humanitarian fleet management requires a coordinated approach that combines technology, cost management, and proactive maintenance strategies. It recommended that humanitarian organizations strengthen investment in digital fleet monitoring tools, enforce preventive maintenance programs, and build technical capacity to ensure efficient and sustainable fleet operations in Ethiopia.