Abstract:
The objective of the study was to investigate the role of small-scale irrigation on the income of
rural households in Mekdela Woreda, South Wollo zone. Multi-stage sampling techniques were
used for the selection of the sample Kebeles and sample respondents. Data were collected from
122 randomly selected household heads by using lottery method of which 61 users and 61 nonusers
from 3 Kebeles of the Woreda. Survey questionnaire, key informant interview and focus
group discussions were used as primary data sources. Both descriptive and inferential statistics
were applied for analyzing the data. Paired and independent t-test were used to compare income
before and after irrigation, and users and non-users respectively. Correlation was used in order
to see the relationship between continuous variables. Moreover, multiple linear regression model
was used to identify factors that affect the income of rural households. The result of t-test revealed
that the use of small-scale irrigation was found positively and significantly related with the income
of households. In the multiple linear regression model, a total of sixteen explanatory variables
were included. Among these, eight variables were found statistically significant. The mean income
of user households increased after the intervention of irrigation and users are in a better position
when compared to those that are non-users in terms of income obtained from on farm, non/off
farm, livestock and livestock products. The study revealed that farm size, educational status, family
labor force, access to irrigation, number of oxen, livestock ownership, access to training and
access to credit of the households were found significant factors that affect the total income of
households. Therefore, the finding of the study suggested that concerned bodies should give more
focus on strengthening and development of small-scale irrigations to improve the income of
households in the study area. Awareness should be created about the role of irrigation for farmers
to use the available surface and underground water for agriculture and due attention should be
given for training farmers to update the knowledge and skill of farmers.
