A grouping of selected small-scale horticulture farmers, is experimenting with drip irrigation technology as a measure to build resilience to climate change while boosting production. The grouping, known as In Mndolera Extension Planning Area (EPA) is testing the initiative as introduced by The African Institute for Corporate Citizenship (AICC).
AICC introduced the approach, in partnership with Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) under Commercial Agribusiness for Sustainable Horticulture (Cash) Project. The initiative boost production and productivity to a level where some of the profits can be re-invested for further growth.
Drip irrigation is suitable for most soils. On clay soils, water must be applied slowly to avoid surface water ponding and runoff. On sandy soils, higher emitter discharge rates will be needed to ensure adequate lateral wetting of the soil. The main goal is to place water directly into the root zone and minimise evaporation. Agricultural experts have hailed the initiative as capable of boosting production to a level where some of the profits can be re-invested for further growth.