College of Business and Economics
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Item IMPACT OF SMALL-SCALE IRRIGATION TECHNOLOGY ON FARM HOUSEHOLD WELFARE IN TAHTAY MAYCHEW WEREDA, TIGRAY REGION, NORTH ETHIOPIA(Mekelle University, 2025-08-25) ALEMSHET YIHDEGOMethodology: This study investigates the impact of small-scale irrigation technology (SSIT) on farm household welfare in Tahtay Maychew Wereda, Tigray Region, North Ethiopia, focusing on three kebeles Hadi Shadi, May Sye, and May Berazyo with a combined population of 24,640. Despite the increasing adoption of SSIT, empirical evidence on its socio-economic and genderrelated impacts in this drought-prone region remains limited. Employing a mixed methods approach, the study surveyed 200 households (150 SSIT adopters and 50 non-adopters), complemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Quantitative analysis utilized descriptive statistics, Probit regression, and Propensity Score Matching to assess impacts on income, food security, and women’s empowerment. Results: Findings reveal that SSIT adoption significantly enhances household welfare, increasing annual income by 78% (32,400 ETB vs. 18,200 ETB), improving dietary diversity, reducing food shortages (24% vs. 62%), and boosting women’s decision-making and income control (empowerment index: 0.58 vs. 0.32). Adoption is driven by education, landholding size, and access to extension and credit services, though challenges like seasonal water shortages (52%), equipment scarcity (43%), and labor demands (37%) persist. Conclusion: The study concludes that SSIT is a transformative tool for rural livelihoods and gender equity but requires stronger institutional support and infrastructure to ensure sustainability. Recommendations include expanding extension services, subsidizing equipment, and improving water management to maximize SSIT’s impact.