Henkaro, Nigussie Taffesse (2002) The Role of Irrigation Development in Enhancing Household Food Security: A Case of Three Small-Scale Irrigation Schemes in Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples' Region. Masters thesis, Addis Ababa University.
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Abstract
This study examines the use of irrigation development for food security through its impact on food availability, access and diversification. Its main objective being the study of impact of irrigation on household food security, the research focuses on how irrigation is used to change households’ decision on food production (e.g. cropping pattern), food supply volume, access to them, and their utilization. Household survey and fieldwork observation were used to collected data at community, household and individual levels. Data related to area under cultivation, agricultural intensity, household wealth status and cropping pattern related data were collected using structured questionnaire, by using locally recruited and trained enumerators. Study areas' background characteristics, attitudes of government employees and farmers towards irrigation and other related data were accessed from line offices and implementing agencies. The analysis is undertaken using statistical tools such as percentage values and chi-square tests, on top of qualitative analysis. The findings of this study highlight the positive impact of irrigation as it could bring increased agricultural production and productivity, better access of female members to income, and improved wealth status in the area. Food security situation is enhanced as a result of livestock and its products’ increase, agricultural crop diversification, agricultural intensification and enabling more labour engagement in farm activities. Cropping pattern decisions are also changed due to existence of irrigation, resulting in generating more income and access to marketable food. It is also observed that households with access to irrigation have been able to double their yearly harvest, thereby improving their access to more food. Similarly, irrigators could improve their diet composition due to diversified food sources. Women in the study area have been able to save time from domestic activities and contribute to farm activities in addition to improved access to agricultural products in the long run. Finally, small-scale irrigation development and rehabilitation of non-operational schemes with pertinent, participatory planning and equipped operation and maintenance system is suggested for reducing food insecurity situation of the region.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Masters) |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > G Geography (General) H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races S Agriculture > S Agriculture (General) |
| Divisions: | Africana |
| Depositing User: | Tim Khabala |
| Date Deposited: | 24 Aug 2018 13:25 |
| Last Modified: | 24 Aug 2018 13:25 |
| URI: | http://thesisbank.jhia.ac.ke/id/eprint/8493 |
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