Development of Soil and Water Management Technologies to Increase Productivity of Salt-Affected Soils.

Abstract

Expansion of irrigated agriculture in Kenya would contribute significantly towards increasing food self-sufficiency and poverty alleviation. However, due to waste mismanagement and other natural factors irrigation schemes have been abandoned as a result of salt problems which arises after several years of operation. Examples of irrigated areas which have been abandoned due to salinity include Kimorigo, Kir Kamileza irrigation schemes in Taveta sub-district, Coast Province.

The objective of this study were to carry out trials on leaching and crop managemt procedures for increased productivity of saline soils. The initial leaching and provision of drainage systems in the experimental fields proved very effective in removal of most of the salts which had led to the abandonment of the farms. At least three leachings salts in the soil were essential before seeds could germinate. The experiments were carried out in farmers field.