Pilot Development of Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation for Upland Rice in Uganda
Project Type
Smart Irrigation, Research-to-Practice Pilot
Timeline
July 2025
Location
National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) and Doho Irrigation Scheme, Uganda
The Challenge
Rice farming in Uganda relies heavily on continuous flooding, leading to excessive water use, rising production costs, and declining soil health. Many farmers view flooding as non-negotiable, despite growing pressure on water resources and changing climate patterns. There was a clear need to test and demonstrate alternative water management approaches that are practical, measurable, and acceptable to farmers.
Our Approach
Saerd-tech Consultants led the field design and land improvements for a pilot implementation of Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) irrigation in upland rice systems. The project combined applied research, field-level engineering, and farmer training to test how controlled water use could improve efficiency without compromising yields.
The work focused on proper land levelling, field layout, and water control structures suited to local conditions. Equal emphasis was placed on farmer engagement and training to ensure understanding, acceptance, and correct application of AWD practices.
What We Delivered
- Field design and land improvement works tailored for AWD irrigation
- Pilot AWD irrigation system for upland rice production
- Water management protocols adapted to Ugandan conditions
- Hands-on farmer training on AWD principles and field practices
- Collaboration with research institutions for monitoring and learning
Impact and Early Insights
The pilot demonstrated that rice can be grown with significantly reduced water use when irrigation is managed deliberately rather than continuously. Farmers gained practical skills in timing irrigation, monitoring soil moisture, and understanding crop water needs. The project also generated valuable local data to support wider adoption of AWD in Uganda’s rice schemes.
Beyond the technical outcomes, the project showed that farmers are willing to change long-held practices when solutions are demonstrated clearly and grounded in local realities.
Lessons Learned
- Water efficiency is as much a training issue as it is a technical one
- Field design and land preparation are critical to successful AWD adoption
- Demonstration pilots build trust faster than policy directives