Complex adaptive system approach for improved irrigation management: The case of the Gezira scheme in Sudan*

Abstract

Several factors contribute to poor irrigation management. A set of natural, social, environmental, institutional and technological variables can collectively result in complex and messy problems. Traditional engineering systems are not well suited for addressing coupled and interlinked types of problem. To this end, a hybrid network model is introduced to study the cumulative impact of these variables on the performance of irrigation projects. The model is based on the theory of complex adaptive systems and agent-based modelling. The Gezira scheme in Sudan is used as a case study in order to convert the vicious circle through adopting an improved and most viable irrigation management system. Six key variables are selected as dominant driving forces that influence the performance of the irrigation scheme. These are scheme governance, agricultural research, agricultural inputs and technologies, farmers, water user associations and the irrigation agency responsible for operation and maintenance. The scope of the analysis is to explore the dynamics of system enhancement under different scenarios of policy intervention. The results revealed the need for balanced and diversified investment in all entities to ensure sustainable growth. The findings emphasize the importance of having interventions with moderate growth patterns that seek to enhance cooperation and positive feedback among entities. K E Y W O R D S agent-based models, complex adaptive system, irrigation management, network model, system connectivity, system growth Résumé Plusieurs facteurs contribuent à une mauvaise gestion de l'irrigation. Un ensemble de variables naturelles, sociales, environnementales, institutionnelles et technologiques peuvent entraîner collectivement des problèmes complexes et désordonnés. Les systèmes d'ingénierie traditionnels ne sont pas bien adaptés * Approche de système adaptatif complexe pour une meilleure gestion de l'irrigation: le cas du programme Gezira au Soudan

Development of the Sudan agricultural sector model for policy impact analysis

“…While there is some evidence of salinization in the Gezira scheme, the problem is limited to the downstream portion of the scheme (World Bank, 1990). Soil salinization in Gezira is a consequence of poor irrigation drainage systems, which have resulted in land losses that have become unsuitable for agriculture (Ibrahim, 2020). However, the scale of the salinity problem is minimal compared to the irrigable land under consideration.…”

“…The low irrigation efficiency is attributed to several factors. Among these are the lack of adequate maintenance and the aging of irrigation infrastructures (Ibrahim, 2020; World Bank, 2000). The cost of sediment dredging and lack of proper irrigation management specifically at the farm level are also major challenges.…”