The Role of Dry-Season Vegetable Irrigation Farming in Enhancing Food Security in the Nanumba South District

Abstract

This study examined the role of dry-season vegetable irrigation farming in enhancing food security in the Nanumba South District, using the Wulensi community as a case study. Guided by a qualitative research design, the study employed a case study approach and collected data from 15 purposively selected respondents, including dry-season farmers and agricultural officers. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, and were analysed thematically.  The findings reveal that dry-season irrigation farming is widely practised in Wulensi and contributes significantly to household food security by improving food availability, generating income, and supporting livelihood diversification during the dry season. Despite these benefits, the study identified multiple constraints that undermine the sustainability of irrigation farming.  These include water scarcity, limited access to modern irrigation technologies, high input costs, pest and disease infestations, market challenges, inadequate agricultural extension support, and financial barriers. Respondents proposed several feasible strategies to address these constraints, such as rehabilitating water infrastructure, improving access to irrigation technologies, strengthening extension services, expanding credit facilities, forming farmer cooperatives, and improving market access mechanisms. The study concludes that implementing these strategies could substantially improve the productivity and sustainability of dry-season irrigation farming, thereby contributing to long-term food security in the Wulensi community.