Irrigation system transforms African agriculture
Across Africa, millions of farmers rely on whims of the rain for their crops. This dependence on unpredictable rainfall make agriculture a risky venture, especially in the contents of many dry regions. However, irrigation systems are changing the game, bringing a steady flow of water to thirsty crops and transforming agricultural livelihoods. Irrigation is important in Africa since less than 5% of cultivated land in sub-saharan Africa is irrigated, compared to the global average of 20%. This low irrigation rate puts African agriculture at the mercy of variable rainfall patterns. Droughts can devastate harvests leading to food insecurity and economic hardship. Irrigation offers a lifeline by providing a controlled water source, which enables farmers to grow nutritious crops like vegetables that require frequent watering which is impossible to rely on the rain alone. Irrigation allows farmers to cultivate these in addition to staples, improving their income and dietary diversity. Irrig...