CLIMATE-SMART Agriculture and Climate Resilience Expert Oliver Bulaya says the rapid expansion of solar-powered irrigation could create a new water crisis if farmers and communities gain access to pumping technology without adequate education on groundwater conservation and sustainable water use. Dr Bulaya explained that groundwater is part of a wider hydrological system influenced by rainfall, […]

CLIMATE-SMART Agriculture and Climate Resilience Expert Oliver Bulaya says the rapid expansion of solar-powered irrigation could create a new water crisis if farmers and communities gain access to pumping technology without adequate education on groundwater conservation and sustainable water use.

Dr Bulaya explained that groundwater is part of a wider hydrological system influenced by rainfall, soils, vegetation, forests, wetlands and the ability of landscapes to absorb and retain water.

He said excessive groundwater abstraction, particularly in areas where ecosystems have been degraded, can place increasing pressure on aquifers and undermine long-term water security.

Dr Bulaya explained that Zambia must guard against the unintended consequences of replacing expensive hydro- or fuel-powered irrigation with solar energy while leaving the management and conservation of the underlying water resource unaddressed.

“Farmers and communities should be supported to adopt efficient irrigation methods, schedule irrigation according to crop water requirements, improve soil health, use mulching and rainwater harvesting, and protect forests, wetlands and groundwater recharge areas,” suggested Dr Bulaya.