Micro-Irrigation for Household Food Security in Alebtong District, Mid-North Uganda

Abstract

Purpose: The study examined contribution of micro irrigation to household food security in Cungaciki ward, Apala town council, Alebtong district. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 63 households, employing structured questionnaires to collect data on perceptions of irrigation and its impacts on food availability, nutrition, and economic benefits. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Findings: Results indicate that households perceive irrigation as beneficial, particularly in improving food availability, dietary diversity, and household income. Correlation analysis showed a moderate positive relationship between access to irrigation technology and household food security (r = 0.509, p < 0.001), a modest positive relationship for system effectiveness (r = 0.351, p = 0.005), and a strong positive relationship for capacity for maintenance (r = 0.738, p < 0.001). Regression analysis revealed that capacity for maintenance was the only significant predictor of household food security (B = 0.619, p < 0.001), highlighting that the benefits of irrigation are contingent on proper system upkeep. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study contributes to strengthening the view that while irrigation technology and system effectiveness contribute to food security, sustainable outcomes are largely dependent on households’ ability to maintain irrigation infrastructure. Consequently, it is recommended that local authorities need to build farmers’ technical and management skills, strengthen institutional support, and promote participatory approaches to ensure long-term functionality and food security benefits. Keywords: Micro Irrigation, Irrigation Technology, Household, Food Security, Alebtong