Can shallow groundwater sustain small-scale irrigated agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa? Evidence from N-W Ethiopia

Authors: John Gowing, David Walker, Geoff Parkin, Nathan Forsythe, Alemseged Tamiru Haile, Demis Alamirew Ayenew

This research presents an evidence-based approach to identify how best to support development of groundwater for small- scale irrigation in sub-Saharan Africa. The authors argue that it is important to focus this effort on shallow groundwater resources. They demonstrate and test this proposal in Dangila woreda, north- western highlands of Ethiopia, conducting a multimethod groundwater recharge assessment utilising formal and community-based monitoring, field investigation and existing published data. 

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