Rainwater harvesting is a technique used to collect and store rainwater for later use. This technique is particularly effective in promoting organic farming in Africa, where water is often scarce and irregular. The technique is used to conserve water and improve crop yields, which can help to increase food security and reduce dependence on imported food.
Rainwater harvesting is a simple, low-cost, and effective way to conserve water and improve crop yields. The technique involves collecting rainwater from rooftops, surfaces, or other catchment areas, and storing it in tanks, cisterns, or other containers. The stored water can then be used for irrigation, livestock, and other uses in and around the farm.
On the surface benefits of Rainwater harvesting
One of the main benefits of rainwater harvesting is that it helps to conserve water. In many parts of Africa, water is often scarce and irregular, which makes it difficult for farmers to grow crops. By collecting and storing rainwater, farmers can ensure that they have a reliable source of water for irrigation, even during dry seasons. This can help to improve crop yields and increase food security.
Rainwater harvesting is also an effective way to promote organic farming in Africa. Organic farming relies on natural methods to manage pests and diseases, such as crop rotation, companion planting and composting. These methods require a reliable source of water in order to be effective. By collecting and storing rainwater, farmers can ensure that they have enough water to implement these methods, which can help to improve crop yields and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
Another benefit of rainwater harvesting is that it can help to improve soil health. Rainwater is typically free of pollutants and has a high pH, which makes it ideal for irrigation. When rainwater is used for irrigation, it can help to improve soil structure, increase organic matter, and promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms. This can help to improve crop yields and promote sustainable agriculture.
Examples of rainwater harvesting in Africa include:
Rainwater harvesting in Kenya
Kenya is facing a critical water scarcity issue, with per capita water availability below the global threshold of 1000 cubic meters per person. This is further exacerbated by climate change and population growth and urbanization which leads to increased water demand. This water scarcity is a significant obstacle to the country’s socioeconomic development and achieving Kenya’s Vision 2030 and global development goals outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.
To address this issue, on April 11, 2017, the Kenyan government and various development and business partners launched the Kenya chapter of the Billion Dollar Alliance for Rainwater Harvesting. This continent-wide partnership, led by the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) and the World Food Programme, seeks to construct one million farm ponds to increase water storage on farms. The goal is to construct 100,000 ponds per year for ten years, although it may take 15 years to construct about 70,000 ponds per year due to unforeseen circumstances. This will improve farmers’ income and food security through coordinated irrigation. The partnership will also provide technical, financial, policy, and research support. The World Agroforestry Centre has already built 60 farm ponds which have had a positive impact on the livelihoods of the communities.
Ethiopia case reference
The Ethiopian government and local communities have been working together to construct rainwater harvesting systems such as terracing, contour bunding, and check dams. These systems are designed to collect and store rainwater for later use, ensuring a reliable source of water for irrigation even during dry seasons. This helps to improve crop yields and increase food security for the local communities.
One example of these efforts is the “Tigray Community Based Rainwater Harvesting for Improved Livelihoods” project, which is implemented by the Ethiopian government in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other international organizations. The project aims to construct over 20,000 rainwater harvesting systems in the Tigray region, benefiting over 200,000 people. The project also includes training on sustainable farming practices and the use of organic fertilizers, which helps to improve soil health and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers and pesticide
One drop at a time
In conclusion, rainwater harvesting is a simple, low-cost, and effective way to promote organic farming in Africa. By collecting and storing rainwater, farmers can conserve water, improve crop yields, and increase food security. Additionally, it can promote sustainable agriculture by improving soil health and reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. When implemented successfully and in accordance with local climate and geographic conditions, rainwater harvesting can boost the food and nutrition security of poor households that don’t always have access to irrigation. To access more information and training on rainwater harvesting, reach out to our experts here.