Abstract
{ "background": "Smallholder agriculture in the Sahel is severely constrained by water scarcity and unreliable rainfall. Conventional drip irrigation systems remain financially inaccessible to most farmers, necessitating the development of robust, locally adaptable low-cost alternatives.", "purpose and objectives": "This study aimed to design, construct, and field-evaluate a novel, low-cost drip irrigation system specifically for smallholder farmers in drought-prone regions. The primary objectives were to assess its hydraulic performance, water use efficiency, and agronomic impact compared to traditional flood irrigation.", "methodology": "A drip system was engineered using locally sourced PVC pipes and low-pressure emitters. A randomised complete block design field experiment was conducted on an okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) crop. Key variables monitored included soil moisture, system uniformity, crop yield, and water consumption. Hydraulic performance was modelled using the Christiansen uniformity coefficient ($UCC = 100(1 - \\frac{\\sum{i=1}^{n}|xi - \\bar{x}|}{n\\bar{x}})$). Statistical analysis employed linear mixed-effects models with robust standard errors.", "findings": "The system achieved a mean Christiansen uniformity coefficient of 88.7% (95% CI: 86.2, 91.3). It reduced water application by 42% compared to flood irrigation while increasing okra yield by 28%. The mixed-effects model showed a strongly significant positive effect of the drip system on yield (p < 0.001).", "conclusion": "The engineered drip irrigation system is hydraulically efficient and viable for smallholder use. It demonstrably enhances water productivity and crop yields under Sahelian conditions.", "recommendations": "We recommend promoting this design through farmer cooperatives and integrating training on maintenance. Further research should investigate its long-term durability and economic viability across different crops.", "key words": "appropriate technology, water use efficiency, arid lands, agricultural engineering, sub-Saharan Africa", "contribution