SUSTAINABLE IRRIGATION FARMING: THE ROLE EXTENSION OFFICERS TO SMALLHOLDERS IN SOUTHERN DISTRICTS OF LESOTHO

Abstract

Water resources could be used to improve the lives of Lesotho's citizens. However, the country is currently experiencing food shortages due to severe droughts. This paper aims to explore the role of extension support in developing sustainable irrigation farming in Lesotho. A survey was carried out among irrigation farmers and extension officers in four districts of Lesotho. A structural questionnaire was administered amongst 153 irrigation farmers and 31 extension officers randomly. The results revealed that 70% of irrigation farmers did not consider extension as important for their management decisions. Although extension workers are highly skilled, they are not qualified to provide irrigation management support. This is a critical component of sustainable irrigation farming. The findings indicate that more political and institutional involvement in irrigation farming should be considered in order to improve the performance of the sector.