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Critical governance problems for farmer-led irrigation: isomorphic mimicry and capability traps
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 16:57 authored by Anna Mdee, Elizabeth HarrisonElizabeth HarrisonIrrigated agricultural production is viewed as key to the twin challenges of transforming agriculture and adapting to climate change in sub-Saharan Africa. Farmer-led irrigation is currently not well recognised or accounted for, and the current focus on state or public-private irrigation schemes means this activity is largely occurring outside of formal governance mechanisms or is deemed illegal. How do current institutional and regulatory frameworks relate to the apparent boom in farmer-led irrigation, and how do these shape current patterns of response, support, and regulation? To answer this question, we build a conceptual understanding of water governance which draws on critiques of current institutional frameworks for water and irrigation management, specifically using the conceptual ideas of isomorphic mimicry and capability traps, and elements of a problem-driven iterative adaptation (PDIA) approach. We then use three case studies from Tanzania and Malawi to illuminate three critical problems that state institutions encounter in approaching the recognition and regulation of farmer-led irrigation. In our conclusion we argue that current irrigation governance is creating capability traps for existing institutions. Where incremental and context-driven adaptation of governance is practiced this can be avoided, creating better chances of effective support and regulation of farmer-led irrigation development.
Funding
Innovations to Promote Growth among Small-scale Irrigators in Africa: An Ethnographic and Knowledge-Exchange Approach; G0983; ESRC-ECONOMIC & SOCIAL RESEARCH COUNCIL; ES/J009415/1
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
Water AlternativesISSN
1965-0175Publisher
Water AlternativesPublisher URL
Issue
1Volume
12Page range
30-45Department affiliated with
- Anthropology Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2019-02-21First Open Access (FOA) Date
2019-02-21First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2019-02-20Usage metrics
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