Sediment Influx and Its Drivers in Farmers’ Managed Irrigation Schemes in Ethiopia

Excessive soil erosion hampers the functioning of many irrigation schemes throughout sub-Saharan Africa, increasing management difficulties and operation maintenance costs. River water is often considered main source sedimentation, while overland sediment inflow overlooked. From 2016 to 2018, participatory research was conducted assess influx in two Ethiopia. Sediment simulated using revised universal loss equation (RUSLE) compared amount removed during desilting campaigns. The deposition rate 308 m3/km 1087 m3/km, respectively, for Arata-Chufa Ketar schemes. Spatial losses amounts up 18 t/ha/yr scheme 41 scheme. Overland contribution significantly high accounting 77% deposited sediment, only 4% sedimentation at came from flow. Feeder canal length absence banks increased rate, however, this overlooked by stakeholders. We conclude that an neglected component a major cause excessive problems numerous Africa.