DWFI’s Smallholder Irrigation Mythbuster Series examines the narratives that too often shape how small-scale irrigation is funded, regulated, and supported. Drawing on research, field experience, and insights, the series addresses widely held assumptions about smallholder farmers, technology, cost, labor, and water use. By challenging outdated ideas and surfacing real-world data, the series aims to support smarter policy and investment, and better outcomes for the millions of farmers who depend on irrigation to secure their livelihoods and feed their communities. Watch this space for a new blog every two weeks.
- Intro: ‘Small is stupid’ and the myths blocking smallholder irrigation potential
- Are Nebraska’s food security issues too big to solve?
- (Myth #1) Small-scale agriculture doesn’t need engineering support
- (Myth #2) Small farmers only grow enough to feed themselves
- Are subsidies the solution for “costly” small-scale irrigation technologies?
- Should we irrigate in Africa?
- Do mega water projects achieve food and water security?