Women in irrigation: case studies of schemes in the Gambia, Kenya and South Africa

Abstract

Case studies from the Gambia, Kenya and South Africa were conducted to determine the role of women in irrigated farming. Opinions from men and women farmers were obtained from twelve sites, chosen to represent smallholder irrigation typical of the region. Three of the twelve schemes were women only developments and a further two had adopted policies to favour women. The other seven schemes lacked any specific gender policy. Although all schemes are smallholder schemes, a variety of irrigation methods were employed, different institutional arrangements are represented and a wide range of cropping systems included.

The report presents the investigative tools developed and describes the findings in twelve case studies. The case study findings are presented on a country basis to provide data for use in those countries. Where possible, the field information gathered has been augmented with existing information. Further, background information can be found in the Appendices.

The results are presented in an easy to follow manner with the aid of tables that give a summary of important data. Each country section ends with a discussion of the findings and a series of key conclusions.

Citation

HR Wallingford, UK. 162 pp.

Women in irrigation: case studies of schemes in the Gambia, Kenya and South Africa

Published 1 January 1996