African Soil Science Journal (Earth/Agri Science focus) | 26 November 2005
Adoption Rates and Performance Outcomes of Smart Irrigation Systems Among Smallholder Farmers in Senegal's Rural Regions,
T, o, u, m, a, n, i, D, i, o, p, ,, A, l, a, s, s, a, n, e, S, o, w
Abstract
This study examines the adoption rates of smart irrigation systems by smallholder farmers in Senegal's rural regions and evaluates their performance outcomes. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews and quantitative data analysis was employed to collect and analyse data from 100 randomly selected farmers across five regions of Senegal over two years, with a particular focus on the period -. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. A consistent adoption rate of 48% was observed among smallholder farmers in Senegal's rural regions, with significant variation across different socio-economic groups (urban vs. rural). The main performance outcomes indicated improved water use efficiency by 15%, leading to a reduction in irrigation costs by an average of $20 per hectare. This study provides evidence on the effectiveness of smart irrigation systems for smallholder farmers, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and supportive policies to enhance their adoption rates. Policymakers should invest in capacity building programmes for extension services and provide subsidies to encourage the wider uptake of smart irrigation technologies. Farmers' organizations can also play a crucial role in facilitating knowledge sharing and technology diffusion. The empirical specification follows $Y=\beta_0+\beta^\top X+\varepsilon$, and inference is reported with uncertainty-aware statistical criteria.