Contribution of Small-Scale Irrigation Practices on Rural Household Income in Gulomekada Woreda

Abstract

Abstract:

The irrigation sector in Ethiopia is expanding rapidly, yet it contributes less to the national economy compared to rain-fed agriculture and livestock due to various challenges. The Ethiopian government is focusing on enhancing agricultural productivity through small-scale irrigation schemes, which significantly impact food production and household food security. This paper examines the effects of small-scale irrigation on household income in the Gulomekeda Woreda of Eastern Tigray Zone, utilizing both purposive and random sampling methods with a sample size of 130 households. The study analyzes social, economic, technological, and environmental factors influencing irrigation practices and household income. Data were collected through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and questionnaires, with SPSS software used for analysis.

The findings indicate that small-scale irrigation greatly enhances household income and food security, with irrigation users reporting higher incomes than non-users. Factors such as farming type, modern input usage, and market distance significantly influence participation in irrigation. Additionally, land size, livestock, non-farm income, and various support mechanisms positively affect involvement in small-scale irrigation. However, challenges such as water shortages, lack of oxen, inadequate administration, and crop failures hinder the effectiveness of these schemes. The study suggests that low irrigation performance is tied to poor project design and insufficient community involvement. Overall, the research concludes that small-scale irrigation plays a crucial role in boosting farmers' household incomes.