Empowering Smallholder Farmers through Sustainable Drip Irrigation: A Success Story from Northern Ghana

Through a strategic partnership with Bread for the World (Germany) and the support of local stakeholders, WUZDA Ghana has empowered over 283 smallholder farmers across 10 project communities using drip irrigation for organic vegetable production. This initiative has transformed farming practices and livelihoods, particularly for women, who comprise approximately 85% of the direct beneficiaries.

Seven communities utilize gasoline-powered water pumps, while three benefit from solar-powered irrigation systems—ensuring year-round access to water. Farmers received drought-resistant seeds, technical support, and regular farmer field school services, enabling them to adopt best practices in water conservation, soil management, composting, and pest control. These interventions have led to healthier crops, higher yields, and increased household incomes.

Solar system installed in Duuyin

The project aims to achieve three key outcomes: increased household income, improved child nutrition, and enhanced financial independence, particularly for women farmers.

According to Mohammed Sherif Muniru, the Program Officer in charge of agronomic practices, “The success of this season reflects the commitment and empowerment of the farmers, especially the women. It shows the power of sustainable agriculture and local ownership. When you equip people with the right tools and knowledge, they thrive.”    

Beneficiary Spotlight

Meet Iddrisu Sharatu, a mother of four and a vegetable farmer in the Wovogumah community. Before the project, Sharatu struggled to grow enough food during the dry season. With access to drip irrigation and training, she now harvests fresh vegetables throughout the year. “I can feed my children and sell the rest at the market,” she says. “This project has changed my life.” Iddrisu Sharatu adds, “We’ve moved from scarcity to surplus. We now feed our families well and still have enough to sell at the markets.”

Harvest and Impact Highlights (January–September 2025)

Dry Season Harvest (January–June 2025)

  • Total vegetable production: 12,601.5 kg
  • Quantity sold: 9,423.5 kg, generating GH₵36,130.00
  • Quantity consumed: 3,178 kg, valued at GH₵12,184.00
  • Total economic value: GH₵48,314.00

Rainy season Harvest (July –September)

  • Total vegetable production: 8,150.5 kg (from six communities)
  • Quantity sold: 5,209.5 kg, generating GH₵30,295.00
  • Quantity consumed: 2,743 kg, valued at GH₵16,530.00
  • Total economic value: GH₵46,825.00

WUZDA GHANA believes this success can be replicated in many more communities, but we can’t do it alone.

We are actively seeking like-minded partners, donor organizations, and philanthropists who share our vision of a food-secure, climate-resilient future for smallholder farmers. Whether through funding, technical collaboration, or advocacy support, your partnership can help expand this proven model and reach even more vulnerable families.

Let’s grow this impact together.

For partnership inquiries or to learn more, please contact:
Mr. Abdul-Ganiyu Ibrahim
Training Coordinator/M&E Officer
ganiyu.wuzda67@yahoo.com

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