African Water Resources Management (Environmental/Earth Science) | 21 February 2010
Innovative Water Management Strategies for Irrigated Agriculture in Semi-Arid Ethiopia: A Social Impact Study
M, u, l, u, W, o, n, d, a, f, e, r, a, ,, G, e, t, a, c, h, e, w, A, b, e, r, a, ,, B, e, k, a, l, u, A, s, s, e, f, a
Abstract
Irrigated agriculture in semi-arid regions of Ethiopia faces significant challenges due to limited water resources and climate variability. A mixed-method approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews was employed to assess farmer perceptions and practices related to water management innovations. Farmers reported increased crop productivity by up to 30% in irrigated fields where innovative water-saving techniques were implemented. The study highlights the potential of integrated water resource management strategies for sustainable agricultural development in semi-arid Ethiopia, particularly in terms of enhancing resilience and livelihood security. Policy makers should prioritise funding for research and implementation of proven water-saving technologies to support smallholder farmers in semi-arid regions. Irrigation, Semi-Arid Regions, Water Management, Social Impact Study