Journal of E-Governance and Digital Transformation in Africa (Technology | 16 September 2010
Smart Village Irrigation Systems in Ethiopian Rural Areas: Metrics and Farmer Satisfaction
K, a, s, s, a, G, i, r, m, a, ,, B, i, r, t, u, k, a, n, A, l, i, y, e
Abstract
This study explores the implementation of smart irrigation systems in Ethiopian rural villages to enhance water efficiency and farmer satisfaction. A mixed-method approach was employed, including pre- and post-installation assessments using a validated irrigation efficiency metric (η) and structured farmer satisfaction surveys. Water usage decreased by an average of 15% in treated areas compared to controls, with farmer satisfaction scores increasing by 20% on a Likert scale. The smart irrigation systems demonstrated significant improvement in water efficiency and enhanced farmers' livelihoods. Further research is recommended to assess long-term sustainability and scalability of these systems across different climatic zones. smart irrigation, water efficiency, farmer satisfaction, Ethiopian rural areas Model estimation used $\hat{\theta}=argmin<em>{\theta}\sum</em>i\ell(y<em>i,f</em>\theta(x<em>i))+\lambda\lVert\theta\rVert</em>2^2$, with performance evaluated using out-of-sample error.