Analyses & Studies
Report | EAIO Economic Newsletter - Irrigation Sector in EAIO
The monthly East Africa and Indian Ocean study has been published by the French Treasury. This study focuses on Irrigation Sector in EAIO.
The EAIO economies - with the exception of Djibouti, Mauritius and the Seychelles - are highly dependent on agriculture to provide jobs, earn foreign currency and ensure food and nutritional security for their populations. Against a backdrop of climate change and demographic growth, agricultural productivity is a major challenge for both food crops and export markets: the availability of water resources in the right quantity and quality, at the right times and in the right places, and at the right price, is one of the mainstays of many agricultural policies in the region's countries. Yet, overall, the results fall far short of the considerable stakes and challenges to be met. Irrigation levels vary widely across the region, from the lowest in the world to the highest in specific contexts (Sudan and Madagascar). Similarly, within a given country, depending on the territory and type of agriculture, irrigation levels and types vary widely.
Focus on Tanzania:
Irrigation development in Tanzania is of crucial importance to ensure reliable and sustainable agricultural production and productivity, a step towards food security in the face of climatic shocks. Limited currently to 2.5% of the country's irrigable land, increasing the irrigated area could be a relevant, as the agricultural sector accounts for 26% of GDP, employs 70% of the workforce and depends mainly on rainfall, making it vulnerable to climate change. Despite the existence of a legal framework, the development of irrigation is hampered by inefficient management, operation and maintenance of the access to financing for smallholders. The sector is well supported by government programs and development partners, and presents opportunities for French companies for the sale of equipment dedicated to agricultural irrigation and the watering of greenhouse crops.
