IMPACTS OF SMALL SCALE IRRIGATION ON FOOD SECURITY AND RURAL LIVELIHOODS EMPOWERMENT IN LAWRA MUNICIPALITY

Abstract

The study examines the impact of irrigation on farmer’s livelihoods in the Lawra Municipality of the Upper West Region. A multi-stage sampling was used to obtain a sample of 84 irrigated farmers and 54 non irrigated farmers. The Z- Shape technique on yield plots and farm budget were used to analyze the food security situation and impact of schemes on farmer’s livelihoods. The study identified four major types of irrigation (surface irrigation, drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation and culvert diversion). It was established that farmers with irrigation facilities are food secured. Large household size or labour engagement, access to credit, access to ready market, access to extension services, tend to increase farmers involvement in irrigation schemes. Irrigation schemes create employment and serve as a source of income to households, as well as a source of revenue to the Lawra Municipal Assembly. It was further revealed that irrigation schemes contribute to increase yields, reduce youth out migration and ensure diversification of assets hence, livelihood empowerment. Poorly developed irrigation facilities, limited access to credit, low extension services are some of the challenges facing irrigation farmers. The study recommends repair of breached dams, training of extension staff on irrigation management, supplies of irrigation logistics such as drip lines and pumping machines and improve markets infrastructure.