Agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa relies heavily on rainfall, making it highly vulnerable to climate variability and change. Although Africa has significant irrigation potential, only a limited portion of its arable land is irrigated. A new policy brief by the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) and partners explores how the African Union’s Framework for Irrigation Development and Agricultural Water Management (IDAWM) can guide sustainable agricultural water management to address these vulnerabilities and support food security.
Expanding irrigation is a vital strategy for mitigating risks in rainfed systems and improving productivity. However, it requires careful planning to manage environmental, social and governance priorities. These include land degradation, changes in community power dynamics, increased water use, and pollution. The brief emphasizes the importance of integrated approaches that balance productivity gains with sustainability. Improved irrigation efficiency can lead to unintended consequences such as higher overall water use. Therefore, policies must not only promote irrigation but also anticipate and mitigate these risks. The IDAWM Framework offers a structured pathway to identify challenges, guide national and regional policies, and promote inclusive and evidence-based water management. Key recommendations include adopting systems that link water, energy, agriculture, environment, and health. This method promotes the development of comprehensive policies that encourage collaboration among multiple sectors and stakeholders. Strengthening local institutions is also crucial for equitable decision-making and efficient resource use.
If implemented effectively, the IDAWM Framework can unlock Africa’s agricultural potential, support climate adaptation, and build resilient food systems. It calls for investments that deliver co-benefits for people and ecosystems, ensuring that irrigation development promotes long-term sustainability and inclusiveness. By transforming agricultural water management, Africa can take a significant step toward achieving its food security goals.
