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Irrigation Water and Security in South African Smallholder Farming: Assessing Strategies for Revitalization

Author

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  • Variety Nkateko Thabane

    (School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela 1200, South Africa)

  • Isaac Azikiwe Agholor

    (School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela 1200, South Africa)

  • Ndomelele Ndiko Ludidi

    (School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela 1200, South Africa)

  • Mishal Trevor Morepje

    (School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela 1200, South Africa)

  • Lethu Inneth Mgwenya

    (School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela 1200, South Africa)

  • Nomzamo Sharon Msweli

    (School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela 1200, South Africa)

  • Moses Zakhele Sithole

    (School of Agricultural Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela 1200, South Africa)

Abstract

The precipitation pattern in South Africa is unpredictable and irregularly distributed across the nine provinces. Water resources support agriculture, mining activities, and other social and economic activities in the country. Nevertheless, South Africa is a water-scarce country prompting the urgent need for revitalization to increase water availability. There are major issues with irrigation water security in South Africa’s agriculture sector. Water scarcity, exacerbated by population growth, climate change, and wasteful use, threatens smallholder farmers’ livelihoods. Smallholder farmers encounter difficulties obtaining water despite initiatives to enhance water management, such as poor infrastructure, a lack of funding, and exclusion from choices about water management. This study examines the current water security challenges faced by smallholder farmers in ensuring water security in South Africa. It emphasizes the importance of collaborative networks, inclusive water governance, and innovative irrigation technologies. The study highlights the need for programs and policies that promote cutting-edge irrigation technologies and support smallholder farmers’ participation in water management decisions. Effective solutions require a coordinated approach, involving government, NGOs, and the private sector. Addressing these challenges can improve water security, promote sustainable agricultural development, and enhance food security nationwide effectively and efficiently. Additionally, the study suggests that context-specific solutions be developed, considering the requirements and difficulties smallholder farmers face. This entails funding irrigation infrastructure, assisting and training farmers, and advancing water-saving innovations.

Suggested Citation

  • Variety Nkateko Thabane & Isaac Azikiwe Agholor & Ndomelele Ndiko Ludidi & Mishal Trevor Morepje & Lethu Inneth Mgwenya & Nomzamo Sharon Msweli & Moses Zakhele Sithole, 2025. "Irrigation Water and Security in South African Smallholder Farming: Assessing Strategies for Revitalization," World, MDPI, vol. 6(1), pages 1-14, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jworld:v:6:y:2025:i:1:p:32-:d:1603339
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Confidence Ndlovu & Mfundo M. Masuku, 2021. "The Efficacy of Agricultural Cooperatives Towards Enhancing Food Security in Rural Areas: Mbombela Local Municipality, Mpumalanga Province," Technium Social Sciences Journal, Technium Science, vol. 21(1), pages 661-674, July.
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    6. Matchaya, Greenwell & Nhamo, Luxon & Nhlengethwa, Sibusiso & Nhemachena, Charles, 2019. "An overview of water markets in southern Africa: an option for water management in times of scarcity," Papers published in Journals (Open Access), International Water Management Institute, pages 11(5):1-16..
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    Cited by:

    1. Mahali Elizabeth Lesala & Nyarai Mujuru & Lelethu Mdoda & Ajuruchukwu Obi, 2025. "Evaluating the Economic Impact of Market Participation on the Well-Being of Smallholder Irrigators: Evidence from the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(8), pages 1-23, April.

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