Evaluation of the revitalization of smallholder irrigation schemes :a case study of Krokodilheuwel Irrigation Project in Sekhukhune District, Limpopo Province

Abstract

The study was an attempt to evaluate the results of the revitalization of the smallholder irrigation schemes programme which was introduced by the Limpopo Department of Agriculture. The focus area was the Krokodilheuwel Irrigation Scheme in Makhuduthamaga Municipality which falls under the jurisdiction of Sekhukhune District. The nature of the study was qualitative and was conducted on farmers and technical staff as respondents within the irrigation scheme. The research findings indicated that the majority of the farmers noted some improvements, especially on the management of irrigation schemes by farmers, provision of technical support from staff of the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and in terms of the frequency of training provided to smallholder irrigation schemes. On the other hand, a problem was also observed on the side of management of income and expenditure which was not transparent and inclusive. Farmers were not involved in the management of income and expenditure, but only the strategic partner. Farmers were only told that they did not make any profit as the produce failed to cover for the expenditure incurred for that season. Farmers suggested that the Limpopo Department of Agriculture should be represented on the management of the irrigation scheme to monitor the running of the scheme. The researcher also recommended that the Limpopo Department of Agriculture should put up measures to monitor and evaluate the activities within the irrigation scheme to ensure that the revitalization programme is implemented according to the plans so that intended goals are realized.