What is the GNA?

The Gaps and Needs Analysis (GNA) is the Logistics Cluster standard tool for assessing and understanding humanitarian logistics gaps and needs in a field-based operation. The GNA allows to review and analyze the in-country logistics situation, partners logistics capacity to implement their programs, what the gaps will be if any, and what types of support will then be necessary.

When is the GNA conducted?

The GNA is conducted: 

  • Prior to the Logistics Cluster activation in the country;
  • Every year when the Cluster is active;
  • In case of a major change in the context or country response, prompting a change of strategy and the drafting of a new Logistics Cluster Concept of Operations (ConOps). 

The GNA should ideally be completed prior to a Cluster even being activated, but in practice, Clusters operations may be initiated in response to unforeseen rapid-onset emergencies, that do not allow the exercise to be carried out. In this situation, the analysis must be done as soon as possible to inform Cluster activities. 

Objectives and Methodology

​Conducting the analysis requires a Logistics Cluster team (based in country and/or at HQ) to lead the exercise, carry out an in-depth analysis of the challenges and partners' capacities and prepare the report, which will form the basis of future strategy, Concept of Operations (ConOps) and services. It also requires the participation and collaboration of partners to be able to establish the most complete picture of the situation possible.

 

​ A GNA consists of 3 components: 

  1. A series of standard interview questions for key partners which ask about future operational plans and about detailed information on the logistics strategies, challenges and gaps they are facing;
  2. A survey of the capacity of currently available service providers, be they commercial or non-profit.
  3. A review of previous existing assessments from WFP or other agencies and/or donors. 
How partners can contribute to the GNA

​In some contexts or situations where the GNA cannot be carried out, the Logistics Cluster team can use other methods to compile information, develop a situation analysis and identify partners needs, that include:

  • Partner consultations
  • Formal partner surveys
  • Rapid Infrastructure Assessments
  • Market assessments 

Download GNA information

Completed GNA reports are published on the respective country pages or can be obtained through contacting:

hq.glc.ops.list@wfp.org