The Partnership for Supply Chain Management (PFSCM) managed the supply chain from procurement to delivery of 29 fixed digital X-ray machines across Mozambique in under one year—strengthening diagnostic capacity nationwide through careful planning, coordination, and execution.
Mozambique is one of PFSCM’s largest clients by value and volume of health products delivered annually. While PFSCM routinely supplies rapid diagnostics, reagents, and sterilization equipment, medical imaging presents a far greater level of complexity. Fixed digital X-ray systems are large, high-value assets that require specialized handling, infrastructure readiness, and detailed installation planning—particularly in low- and middle-income countries where site conditions vary significantly.
Since 2022, PFSCM has supported multiple imaging initiatives in Mozambique, including the delivery and installation of CT scanners and portable digital X-ray systems. However, the 2025 rollout of 29 fixed systems marks the largest fixed imaging deployment to date. The units were produced in multiple lots and shipped from Europe in six containers, with staggered deliveries to avoid overwhelming port, storage, and in-country distribution capacity.
PFSCM Senior Logistics Specialist Christian Marchisio explains that medical imaging is among the most complex categories PFSCM manages.
“The supply chain solution for X-rays is complex in the sense that we manage every aspect of the process, from client-centered advice on systems, software, maintenance, and warranties to coordinating the order collections, importation documents, and site-readiness with multiple stakeholders.”
Marchisio elaborates further on the importance of synchronized execution across the supply chain.
“We started with early site visits to confirm infrastructure readiness, then held weekly coordination calls to track production, shipping, import waivers, and installation plans, while working closely with our logistics partner and the receiving end users to ensure the right equipment, transport, and road access were in place for smooth delivery.”
He adds that handling fixed X-ray systems in resource-limited environments often requires creative solutions.
“Every site requires careful assessment because we often cannot rely on wide entryways, loading docks, or ramps, so we meticulously plan container positioning, offloading, and safe movement into imaging rooms—it is like solving a logistical puzzle each time.”
In addition, he says that PFSCM had to account for broader operating risks, such as the ongoing insurgency in northern Mozambique, which posed a challenge to the safe delivery of one of the machines.
“For a delivery to the northern province, we coordinated closely with our logistics provider and arranged a military escort,” Marchisio explains.
“This convoy ensured the equipment reached the health facility, where diagnostic services are urgently needed, safely.”
Meanwhile, the first five X-rays were delivered in April 2025 already, and progressed on schedule, with all X-rays installed by the end of January 2026. Some installation activities are still ongoing.
This large-scale deployment highlights PFSCM’s capacity to manage complex, project-based procurement in low-resource settings—combining technical expertise, risk mitigation, and hands-on coordination to ensure critical diagnostic equipment is delivered and operational where it matters most.
