Assessing sustainability and management challenges in small-scale irrigation: Insights from the Amiba Garno scheme in Upper Blue Nile Basin

Abstract

Irrigation development is crucial for economic growth, rural development, food security, and poverty reduction in Ethiopia. Despite its significance, little attention is given to the sustainability of the already developed irrigation projects. This study assesses the sustainability of the Amiba Garno small-scale irrigation scheme in the Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia. The study considers socio-cultural, environmental, technical, economic, and institutional factors. Key sustainability indicators include the scheme's technical performance, level of maintenance, system stability, environmental protection, productivity, and institutional support services and management. Data were collected through household surveys, interviews, group discussions, field observations, and literature reviews. The sustainability index was found to be 1.53, nearing unsustainability due to weak institutional, support services and management, and poor maintenance. Major challenges include irrigation water shortages during the crops peak water demand season, unequal water distribution among beneficiary farmers, siltation of the headwork, and apron damage. Immediate solutions are needed to address these issues. Improving the scheme’s economic and environmental sustainability requires stronger institutional support, farmer training on improved crop production and water management, and regular supervision and monitoring.