Climate change impacts and responses in small-scale irrigation systems in West Africa

Book excerpt: West and Central Africa region (WCA) is particularly threatened by climate change and weather-related shocks, due in part to its high dependence on rainfed agriculture. Small-scale irrigation is very promising for the region as it can promote rural food security, poverty alleviation and adaptation to climate change. Improving the resilience of small-scale irrigation systems to climate change-related shocks should thus be an essential part of any effective irrigation investment plan. This report aims to provide governments, international organizations and project managers with evidence-based information on the impacts of climate change on small-scale agriculture in WCA in order to support the development of adaptation strategies that build the resilience of smallholder farmers.