Irrigation - Spray head
Spray-head irrigation requires pressure from pedal or motor pumps. In West Africa, the spray-head is mounted on a lay-flat hose connected to a small petrol pump.
Due to its simplicity, spray irrigation technology has spread spontaneously from farmer to farmer in West-African countries such as Mali, Niger and Togo. A recent survey in Bamako, Mali, among 80 market gardeners showed that more than 60% used this method.
Spray irrigation is an intermediate option between a watering can and more sophisticated sprinkler or drip irrigation. It has high water use efficiency and saves energy and labour.
Treadle pumps combined with spray-heads are promoted by Approtec in East Africa and Enterprise Works in West Africa.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| High water use efficiency. Saves energy and labour. |
|
Costs
US$ 2 - 5 for a spray-head. US$ 300 - 600 for a unit with petrol pumps.
Applying conditions
Location: West Africa.
