Utilization of Water Resources and Food Security in Seka Woreda, Jimma Zone

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the level of water resources utilization for small scale irrigation agriculture and to examine the food security of households of Seka woreda. A sample of two hundred-ten households were taken using stratified random sampling method. Questionnaire and observation were used to obtain primary data. As per the findings of the study indicated the majorities of the respondents have access to pond, spring, swampy, stream and river, well and get abundant rain water. Despite this, 72.86% do not utilize water resources for small-scale irrigation. The findings of the study revealed that households who practice irrigation ensure better food security as compared to those households that do not utilize water resources for small-scale irrigation. There are many operational problems that impeded the efficiency of water resource utilization for small-scale irrigation. For efficient utilization of water resources for small-scale irrigation, the households need supports such as guidance, skilled manpower, access to loan services, fertilizers, selected seeds, access to market, cooperation, water pumps. Thus governmental and non-governmental bodies found at different levels should endeavor to do all what is expected of them in this regard.