By Etop Ekanem

Global entrepreneur and supply chain strategist, Karika Ogheneyonreme, has harped on cross-border business development as a crucial strategy for building stronger and more resilient global supply chains.

She made this known in a statement recently, stressing the need for stronger international collaboration, innovative procurement models, and technology-driven solutions to tackle supply chain vulnerabilities.

She explained that disruptions in trade routes, resource distribution, and logistics systems highlight the urgency of a more connected global network.

Ogheneyonreme emphasized in the statement that countries and industries must adopt shared strategies to improve supply chain performance, cut inefficiencies, and prepare for future market uncertainties.

“Supply chains today are no longer local; they are interconnected systems that require cooperation between governments, corporations, and innovators,” she said, noting that coordinated action is critical to safeguarding trade and ensuring economic growth.

She pointed out in her statement that global supply chains cannot thrive in isolation, adding that connectivity and collaboration are essential to withstand market shocks.

Her views are informed by hands-on experience managing large-scale logistics operations.

At Tenaris, she oversaw Egypt’s $11 billion energy project, introducing process improvements that delivered $3.5 million in savings and secured $200 million in contracts in South America.

Similarly, at Amazon, Ogheneyonreme drove operational changes that improved delivery efficiency, reducing downtime by 22 percent and boosting last-mile delivery performance by 18 percent, demonstrating her ability to strengthen complex logistics systems.

She said in the statement that cross-border business development must also focus on inclusivity, creating systems that support smaller economies and emerging markets.

“We must create procurement models and solutions that not only respond to immediate business needs but also promote inclusive growth and resilience,” she added.

Her advocacy extends beyond corporate operations.

Through KR Ventures, she co-founded programs that connected 50,000 professionals worldwide and built leadership development initiatives like the Women in Leadership Institute in Dubai, designed to equip global leaders with tools to navigate interconnected supply chains.

In recognition of her contributions, Ogheneyonreme has received several awards, including the Bridge Africa Technology Award (2024) for accelerating cross-border growth through technology, and a place on the ABCD Africa IWD 100 Most Impactful Voices (2024) list.
She was also recognized with the Amazon Top Achiever Award (2023) for operational excellence and the Verisult Impact Award (2023) for empowering young entrepreneurs.
With years of experience building systems across continents, Ogheneyonreme continues to advocate for supply chains that are globally connected and resilient.
Her work reflects a blend of innovation, collaboration, and strategic foresight aimed at shaping the future of global trade.