Towards optimizing the performance and cost-Effectiveness of farm pond technology for small-scale irrigation in sdemi-arid farming systems

Abstract

Smallholder farming systems in the vast dry lands-semi-humid to semi-arid environments-have been trying different technologies to address frequent water scarcity that affects crop production, and their livelihoods. Climate change has aggravated water scarcity and hence the need for cost-effective adaptation strategies to improve food security. One of the promising technologies is farm pond system that harvest run-off for horticulture production under small-scale irrigation. Therefore, this paper presents the genesis of upgrading the farm ponds by reducing water losses, which builds on the farmers' experiences, through research, development, piloting and scaling up, and integration of other components to develop a technological package that addresses the challenges of horticultural production by smallholder farmers in the dry lands. The technological package which includes tailor-made sizes of farm ponds, low-head drip irrigation systems, and low-cost metallic greenhouses is based on seeking local solutions to local problems by building on farmers' experiences and existing hi-tech innovations that are out of reach of poor farmers. In addition, the socio-economic impacts of the technological package on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in different parts of the country are highlighted. The technology is scalable and applicable in other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa with similar climatic conditions, farming systems, and climate change challenges that affect the livelihoods of vulnerable smallholder farming communities-periodic water scarcity, inadequate storage and poor water management. However, there is need for improved access to extension and financial services to enhance technology adoption due to its cost-effectiveness and adaptability to different farming systems.