While the Gezira Irrigation Scheme has brought significant benefits to Sudan, it has also caused several challenges. Here are seven problems associated with the scheme:
Waterlogging and Salinization: Over-irrigation and poor drainage in the Gezira Scheme have led to waterlogging and soil salinization. This reduces soil fertility and agricultural productivity, making the land less suitable for crop cultivation over time.
Decline in Cotton Production: The shift in global markets and fluctuating cotton prices have led to a decline in cotton production, which was the primary crop of the Gezira Scheme. This decline has negatively impacted the economy and the livelihoods of farmers who relied on cotton as a cash crop.
Deteriorating Infrastructure: The irrigation canals and infrastructure of the Gezira Scheme have deteriorated over time due to a lack of maintenance and investment. This has resulted in inefficiencies in water distribution, reducing the overall effectiveness of the irrigation system.
Land Tenure Issues: The scheme's traditional land tenure system, where tenants do not own the land they farm, has led to disputes and a lack of investment in land improvements. Farmers are often reluctant to invest in land they do not own, leading to lower productivity.
Environmental Degradation: The large-scale alteration of the natural landscape for the Gezira Scheme has disrupted local ecosystems. The conversion of natural habitats into farmland has led to the loss of biodiversity and changes in local climate patterns.
Economic Dependency: The Gezira region has become highly dependent on the scheme for its economic survival. Any disruptions in water supply, global commodity prices, or government support can have severe economic consequences for the region and its inhabitants.
Social Inequality: The benefits of the Gezira Scheme have not been evenly distributed among the population. Larger, wealthier farmers often gain more from the scheme than smaller, poorer tenants, leading to increased social inequality and tensions within the region.
GEOGRAPHY MASTERCLASS