Market potential for prepaid irrigation

About 42% of all rural piped water systems in Kenya become obsolete in less than 5 years. For irrigation systems that were built to benefit groups of small farmers this percentage is probably even much higher. The reasons for non-functionality are basically the same: difficulties with revenue collection, poor management and lack of transparency. This situation can be improved enormously using prepaid water meters. To this extent SNV Netherlands and Maji Milele partnered and hired an market research company to investigate the potential for prepaid irrigation. The conclusions of the external study were very positive and it was recommended to start piloting it and to see how it fits best within the Kenyan context. Maji Milele and SNV are now determining where to implement the first prepaid irrigation pilot project. While we anticipate challenges, we also see that climate change and food security are becoming bigger issues with time, making the potential for prepaid irrigation highly feasible.

Water Forever

Nairobi office

Parklands Road 25
P.O. Box 14786, 00800 Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254-719 034 300

Uganda office

Plot 1, Kimera Road, Ntinda, 2nd floor, office No. C27, +256-772664601
Kampala, Uganda

Siaya office

East Uyoma, Migoa (Dala Onyango Plot). +254-719 034 300

Marsabit office

Teachers Sacco Building, Opposite Jamia Mosque, House no.14. +254-719 034 300