Irrigation to curb climate change in Kilifi county
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Irrigation is a process of harvesting and applying water to the land to supplement inadequate rainfall and fulfill the water requirement of the crops throughout the crop period. There are different types of irrigation methods;
- Drip Irrigation
- Sprinkler Irrigation
- Manual irrigation
- Furrow Irrigation
- Flood Irrigation
- Basin irrigation
Kazungu Tambo,a farmer in Madunguni ward Kilifi County says that the rainfall patterns in the area have changed. The rains are short and come in later than usual. This has led to low yields in his 4 acre farm. In 2019, he set out to change the situation by having an irrigation system in his farm. He uses a borehole as a source of water to irrigate his farm.He plants horticultural crops for sale like okra, tomatoes, vegetables and bell peppers.He harvest up to 10 bags of tomatoes every week and sale in the local market.
Tambo uses furrow irrigation which is the laying of ridges and furrows on a surface. A ridge is the part of the layout that is elevated and is where the plants are planted. The furrows are the troughs that let the water flow through it. Soil types like clay, loamy and silty are more suitable for furrow irrigation.
Fujo Ngumbao Kiraho also practices irrigation from Sabaki ward Magarini,Kilifi county.He practices basin irrigation.This type of irrigation is mostly used in areas that have a flat level surface.Fujo grows vegetables which he sells to over 50 business women weekly.
ADVANTAGES OF IRRIGATION
- It acts as a shield against drought.
- It helps to prevent diseases and weeds.
- It helps improve yields.
- Irrigation is mostly used to grow cash crops like sugarcane.
DISADVANTAGES OF IRRIGATION
- Over-irrigation can lead to salt efflorescence.
- Irrigation is mostly expensive to smallholder farmers.
- The overflowing water can be a source of waterborne diseases.
Written By;Marion Makunyo