Trends and sustainability of small-scale irrigation in Southern Ethiopia: exploring constraints and adoption dynamics

Small-scale irrigation plays a key role in boosting agricultural productivity, food security, and climate resilience. There remains a significant gap in irrigation technology usage, with limited adoption hindering agricultural productivity among smallholder farming communities in southern Ethiopia. Grasping these elements is crucial for improving adoption dynamics and sustaining long-term success. This study explored the factors, adoption dynamism and sustainability of small-scale irrigation in the Southen region. The study used secondary data from the 2020 Southern Ethiopia regional reports and the 2018/19 Regional agricultural household survey, covering 33,450 households and 41,551 plots across 10 zones of the former SNNPRS. Sampling was based on the population census and stratified by agroecological zones. Two econometric models were applied: a Multivariate Probit (MVP) model to examine joint decisions on four irrigation technologies (Manual, mechanized, gravity-fed, and treadle pumps), and a Cragg Double Hurdle model (DHM) to assess usage intensity. Despite high agricultural potential, only 9.4% of households and 5.2% of plots used irrigation, with manual methods being most common. Mechanized irrigation was more prevalent among male-headed households with larger farms and full-time labor. Gravity-fed systems were linked to community programs and extension services, while treadle pumps were favored by younger males with extension support. Education slightly increased gravity system use but reduced manual labor reliance. Labor availability, especially hired labor, boosted both manual and mechanized use. Surprisingly, credit access was negatively associated with adoption, likely due to non-targeted financing. Irrigation adoption is shaped by a mix of socioeconomic, demographic, and institutional factors. Key drives include wage income, land tenure security, labor availability, access to extension services, and market information. Farm size and ownership were significant positive predictors. The study reveals a significant yet underutilized opportunity to increase irrigation in order to enhance climate resilience and food security. Policy measures should prioritize securing land tenure, improving infrastructure, strengthening extension, credit, and market systems tailored to variations in gender, age, labor, and farm size. Advancing inclusive and sustainable irrigation growth will be crucial for improving food security and climate resilience in Southern Ethiopia.