Livestock–irrigation interaction and its influence on the sustainability of small-scale irrigation schemes in Ethiopia

Small-scale irrigation (SSI) plays a large role in rural livelihoods and the economy in Ethiopia. Despite considerable investment, overall SSI performance is disappointingly poor. The sedimentation of canals and intakes leads to low performance and the abandonment of systems. Livestock roaming in the command area and around riverbanks are an important contributor to sedimentation. Commonly proposed solutions, including technocratic fixes, institutional arrangements between irrigators and livestock farmers, and collective action by irrigators, have not yielded satisfactory results. Based on three case studies from Ethiopia, we illustrate why existing solutions are not effective and why collective action is not straightforward. Using in-depth interviews and focus-group discussions, we examine the complex intertwined relationships between irrigators, livestock farmers and local government. Without understanding the interrelationship and accounting for the links between irrigation and livestock in the design and governance structures of SSI, the proposed technical and organizational fixes are unlikely to be successful. Addressing conflicting interests and building consensus and trust among irrigators and livestock farmers are prerequisites for solving the performance concerns of many Ethiopian SSIs.