A systematic review of advances in estimating irrigation potential in Ethiopia using GIS and remote sensing with future outlook

Abstract

In Ethiopia, rainfed agriculture is challenged by climate change, as the country has been highly affected by drought. To address this problem, irrigation has been practiced as an alternative strategy. However, smallholder farmers continue to face challenges related to water scarcity, which leads to low crop productivity. Advances in spatial data science and growing national interest in developing modern irrigation systems have led to significant scientific output in recent years in the area, although the progress has not yet been documented in a consolidated manner. This makes it difficult to know what has been achieved and what research gaps remain. Hence, our research bridges this gap by reviewing the advances in irrigation potential estimation research, while highlighting research needs and future directions. There have been several studies in Ethiopia that have tried to estimate irrigation potentials. However, most of the researches used a weighting overlay suitability model with a limited number of irrigation potential estimation factors.The advances in irrigation potential estimation research in the country using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote sensing (RS) are a true predictor of opportunities for further advancement in the area in the future. This systematic review paper used for future research directions and policy applications in Ethiopia.