Problems and Potential of Irrigated Agriculture in Sub‐Saharan Africa

Abstract

Examination of 15 World Bank—funded irrigation projects in sub‐Saharan Africa revealed no specific pattern of project performance or cost of development of irrigated agriculture in the area. Some of the projects have been successful while others have had questionable economic and social impact. The cost per hectare of irrigated agricultural development in sub‐Saharan Africa varies widely. The costs for some projects have been highly competitive compared to other parts of the world, while others are among the most expensive irrigation projects in the world. The success or failure of irrigation development in the region appears to be due to good or poor management from planning through operation and maintenance. With careful planning and management of the project, cost of irrigated agriculture development could be comparable to other parts of the world. In most sub‐Saharan African countries, major emphasis has been placed on large‐scale modern irrigation schemes. These countries must choose the right balance between large‐scale publicly managed schemes and small‐scale privately managed irrrigation systems. Priority should be given to development of small‐scale private‐sector irrigation development and improvement and modernization of traditional irrigation systems. Rehabilitation of existing projects should also receive priority. Potential of large‐scale irrigation development in selected areas should be explored and examined carefully. In general, the potential of large‐scale development has been overestimated because of the scarcity of information upon which the projects are planned. In sub‐Saharan Africa, potential of ground‐water irrigation has not yet been fully explored. Pilot projects in ground‐water irrigation should be conducted in selected areas to test economical and technical viability of ground‐water irrigation in sub‐Saharan Africa.