
Small Scale Irrigation Schemes
Multiple irrigation schemes operating across Borno, Yobe, and northern Adamawa States to harness surface and groundwater for irrigation, supporting local farmers and improving food security.
Project Overview
The Small Scale Irrigation Schemes are a series of CBDA projects aimed at supporting rural farmers by providing reliable water sources for agriculture in the Chad Basin region. Operating in five locations (Gora, Garin Gada/Ngalda, Gashua, Michika, and Damasak), these schemes use gravity irrigation and washbores to cultivate rice, wheat, and vegetables. They have developed 250 hectares, benefiting over 600 farming families.
Problem Statement
Erratic rainfall and limited access to water have historically constrained agricultural productivity in these rural areas. Small-scale farmers lack the infrastructure to sustain year-round farming, impacting livelihoods.
Approach Summary
The schemes harness river water (e.g., Gongola, Yobe) and groundwater through washbores, using gravity irrigation to distribute water to fields. Infrastructure like pump houses and farm quarters supports operations.
Scope Details
The schemes cover Gora (50ha, expandable to 400ha), Garin Gada/Ngalda (108ha, expandable to 200ha), Gashua (120ha, expanding to 2,000ha), Michika (50ha, expandable to 500ha), and Damasak (50ha, expandable to 500ha). They serve over 600 beneficiaries across three states.
Strategic Alignment
Supports CBDA's mandate to provide irrigation infrastructure and improve agricultural productivity in rural areas.
Key Challenges
Limited funding and insurgency hinders expansion and operations in some locations.
Project Impact
Project Impact
The Small Scale Irrigation Schemes have achieved notable results:
- Development of 250 hectares across five locations
- Construction of offices, farm quarters, and pump houses
- Creation of jobs for over 600 farming families
- Support for rice, wheat, and vegetable production
- Improved food security in rural communities
- Expansion of the Gashua scheme to 2,000ha in progress with Yobe State Government
These schemes have significantly improved agricultural production and livelihoods in rural areas, with ongoing potential for expansion.
Project Gallery

Hydraflo Pump discharging Water to Distribution Basin in one of the Small Schemes

Rice Field At Gashua Scheme
Project Timeline
Project Timeline Coming Soon
We're currently working on a detailed timeline for this project that will showcase key milestones and progress markers. Check back soon to see our planned roadmap and follow the project's journey from conception to completion.
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