Exploring the Relationship Between Irrigation Scheme Participation and SRI Adoption Among Smallholder Farmers: A Case Study of Zomba District, Malawi
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This study explores the relationship between participation in irrigation schemes and the adoption of the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) among smallholder farmers in the Zomba District of Malawi. Although SRI has the potential to improve rice yields, its adoption remains limited among small-scale farmers in developing countries. By focusing on participation in irrigation schemes as a key variable, this research investigates how involvement in such schemes influences farmers’ knowledge and application of SRI practices. The study evaluates farmers’ understanding and implementation of soil, plant, weed, and water management techniques, identifies challenges to adoption, and proposes strategic responses. A survey was conducted involving 200 farmers, including both irrigation scheme participants and non-participants. Descriptive statistical and comparative analyses were used to evaluate differences between the two groups. The findings reveal that farmers participating in irrigation schemes demonstrate significantly higher knowledge and application of SRI practices compared to non-participants. Key factors influencing adoption include irrigation scheme membership, farming experience, access to reliable water sources, and problem-solving capacity. These results underscore the importance of irrigation scheme participation in facilitating SRI adoption. Accordingly, future policy efforts should prioritize expanding irrigation access and strengthening support systems for farmers to encourage the uptake of sustainable rice cultivation practices.
Abstract
This study explores the relationship between participation in irrigation schemes and the adoption of the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) among smallholder farmers in the Zomba District of Malawi. Although SRI has the potential to improve rice yields, its adoption remains limited among small-scale farmers in developing countries. By focusing on participation in irrigation schemes as a key variable, this research investigates how involvement in such schemes influences farmers’ knowledge and application of SRI practices. The study evaluates farmers’ understanding and implementation of soil, plant, weed, and water management techniques, identifies challenges to adoption, and proposes strategic responses. A survey was conducted involving 200 farmers, including both irrigation scheme participants and non-participants. Descriptive statistical and comparative analyses were used to evaluate differences between the two groups. The findings reveal that farmers participating in irrigation schemes demonstrate significantly higher knowledge and application of SRI practices compared to non-participants. Key factors influencing adoption include irrigation scheme membership, farming experience, access to reliable water sources, and problem-solving capacity. These results underscore the importance of irrigation scheme participation in facilitating SRI adoption. Accordingly, future policy efforts should prioritize expanding irrigation access and strengthening support systems for farmers to encourage the uptake of sustainable rice cultivation practices.