Determinants of participation in collective actions: empirical evidence from irrigation schemes in the Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Flow diagram of irrigation schemes in the Amhara region, Ethiopia, showing farmers on the left, key determinants in the center (socio-economic, institutional, and physical factors), and levels of participation in collective action on the right, with arrows linking participation to irrigation performance and agricultural outcomes. This study examines the institutional framework for water governance and identifies key factors influencing participation in collective action in irrigation schemes in Ethiopia. Although irrigation institutions, particularly in Raya Kobo schemes, have long existed as informal systems, there is no specific legal framework governing them. Instead, they operate under the broader structure of agricultural cooperatives, such as water users' associations and irrigation beneficiaries' cooperatives. Qualitative findings reveal major institutional challenges, including weak rule enforcement, lack of credit services, absence of committed leadership and membership, inadequate legal backing for sanctions, excessive political interference, and ineffective institutional arrangements. The study also identifies significant determinants of participation in collective irrigation activities. Results show that family size (adult equivalent), membership in water users' associations and agricultural cooperatives, age of the irrigation scheme, extension contact, access to training, total land size, land fragmentation, and social capital strongly influence participation decisions. The findings suggest the need for clearly defined roles and responsibilities of irrigation service providers in delivering rural public goods. Strengthening institutional arrangements and legal support is essential to improve water use, maintenance, and overall management of irrigation systems.