Basic guide on design and construction of micro-dams in sustainable agriculture and environmental rehabilitation of Amhara region (SAERAR)

Abstract

The Sustainable Agriculture and Environmental Rehabilitation Programme (SAERP) aims to enhance agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability in the Amhara region of Ethiopia through the design and construction of micro-dams. Despite the region's significant water resource potential, it has remained largely untapped, leading to persistent drought and food insecurity. This document outlines a strategic framework for harnessing surface water through small-scale irrigation systems, emphasizing community involvement and low-cost, appropriate technologies. The proposed micro-dams, with a storage capacity of up to one million cubic meters, are designed to support irrigation for hundreds of families, thereby improving food security and livelihoods. The project is structured in three phases over ten years, focusing on capacity building, community participation, and sustainable management practices. Key challenges identified include inadequate planning, poor project design, and limited engineering solutions, which the programme seeks to address through systematic data collection, community engagement, and the establishment of a robust institutional framework. Overall, the SAERP represents a comprehensive approach to transforming the agricultural landscape of the Amhara region, fostering resilience against climate variability and promoting sustainable development.