Throughout the different decades described previously, farmers’ irrigation initiatives have been consistently ignored or cast aside as unproductive and inefficient.
When recognised in policy, farmer-led irrigation development is equated with informal irrigation, and therefore in need of infrastructural and institutional formalisation.
In spite of this, farmers have continued to expand irrigated areas, often with little external (financial) support, and have contributed to increased food security and economic development on a regional scale.
Key messages:
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Suggested further reading:
- Designs for Sustainable Farmer-Managed Irrigation Schemes in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Costs and Performance of Irrigation Projects: A Comparison of sub-Saharan Africa and Other Developing Regions.
- Water for wealth and food security: Supporting farmer-driven investments in agricultural water management.
- Full reference list
Acknowledgements:
- Chris de Bont, Stockholm University, Sweden
- Phil Woodhouse, Global Development Institute, The University of Manchester