Institutional innovation and smart water management technologies in small-scale irrigation schemes in southern Africa

• Published in: Water international Vol. 45; no. 6; pp. 621 - 650
• Main Authors: Bjornlund, H., van Rooyen, A., Pittock, J., Parry, K., Moyo, M., Mdemu, M., de Sousa, W.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Urbana Routledge 17-08-2020; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Adoption of innovations; Agricultural management; Agricultural technology; Economics; Environmental monitoring; Innovation; Innovations; institutional innovation; Irrigation; Profitability; Qualitative analysis; Small scale technology; small-scale communal irrigation schemes; Smart water management; Soil; Soil fertility; Soil moisture; Southern Africa; Technology; technology adoption; Water management; Water resources management; Work platforms; South Africa; Africa
• ISSN: 0250-8060; 1941-1707
• DOI: 10.1080/02508060.2020.1804715

This paper reports on the introduction of SWM technology, soil moisture and nutrient monitoring tools, alongside Agricultural Innovation Platforms (AIP) in three small-scale irrigation schemes in southern Africa. Quantitative and qualitative data are presented on the changes and benefits that have resulted, including increased yield and profitability. The findings emphasize that information prior and subsequent to adoption is needed, and the importance of understanding and enhancing the incentive framework for behavioural change, including both economic and physical returns. The findings illustrate SWM technology is strengthened when introduced with credible multi-stakeholder processes, such as an AIP, that facilitate institutional innovation.