Rainwater Harvesting Technologies: Experiences From Central Ethiopia

Utilization of rainwater harvesting technology is not only an alternative for the seasonally speckled rain-fed agriculture of Ethiopia but also a mandatory as the country¿s economy is highly dependent on subsistence farming. Especially in areas like central highlands of the country where the soil is degraded and agricultural rain is in small supply with unexpected appearance; utilization of those technologies which retain water during the plenty time and use them in dry periods through irrigation is wises¿ choice. The positive impacts of utilization of these technologies in small holder farmers¿ livelihood and income is clearly seen in the study area though the technology utilization has been fenced by many constraints. Accordingly, if the proper intervention of such constraints is devised and some best experiences are adapted to the area, the fruitfulness of the technology is unquestionable.