After successfully implementing micro-irrigation technology in Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Zambia, iDE explored how to expand micro-irrigation adoption in Burkina Faso, Honduras, Kyrgyzstan, Nicaragua, and Tajikistan, some of the most difficult market environments (short of conflict zones). The discoveries from that research provide deep insight for addressing systemic issues that continue to plague market-building activities.

iDE has been building markets for three decades, championing it as a sustainable approach that respects the dignity of the poor. Because others have begun to adopt this methodology as their own, establishing common definitions of market terms and ideas across organizations and stakeholders is important to reduce confusion and promote successful collaboration.

When designed and implemented properly, micro-irrigation technology increases farmers incomes, reduces workload, and reduces overall water use. Providing training and adapting technology also has to go hand-in-hand with water governance, finance options, governmental policy changes, and public-private partnerships. The potential for the transformative effect of micro-irrigation technology is bright but will require a concerted investment in time, money, and education to scale effectively.