Estimating the potential for expanding smallholder irrigation in Sub-Saharan Africa

The study revealed a large potential for profitable smallholder irrigation expansion in Sub-Sahara Africa. Area expansion potential is 30 million ha for motor pumps, 24 million ha for treadle pumps, 22 million ha for small reservoirs and 20 million ha for communal river diversions. The technologies can benefit between 113 and 369 million rural people in the region generating net revenues of US $ 14-22 billion/yr, depending on technology. Final expansion potential depends on irrigation technology cost and commodity price developments.