Irrigation is the Key for Africa to Take on Drought

WaggonerPyleMeyer said on October 27, 2009

Hello, we are students in the 2009/10 Industrial Design class at Kansas University in Lawrence Kansas USA. We are interested in applying socially directed design to make meaningful contributions to solving everyday problems faced by the majority of people in our world today. We are offering our collaboration as design students to contribute to this IDEA and assist in advancing its presentation or implementation in some way. Inspired by the problem statement posted we have ideas and questions we hope can be clarified by collaborative input from those of you who are experts in your field or have lived or observed the condition the IDEA intends to resolve. Here are some of the initial questions we would like some help with:

1. Approximately how much water, in gallons or liters, is required to consistently irrigate a plot of farmland?
2. How much of a farmer's time is usually dedicated to farming his land or activities relating to the farming his land?
3. Typically, what is the distance between farms?
4. Which crops require the highest soil moisture content?
5. What methods of water collection and/or irrigation are currently used?
6. Would your plan include a way of educating farmers on methods of irrigation scheduling?

Getaw said on October 17, 2009

Hope every one will agree that,This is the right time for NPCA to give you their support.Irrigation realy a key for Africa especialy a country like Ethiopia who have many rivers and its people sufer in drought evry other year.Good job may God be with you.

Bfantu said on October 15, 2009

Nice idea; keep it up!

mekonen said on October 15, 2009

BERT YAGER LIJ

abekele said on October 15, 2009

I like your vision and effort.

ketema said on October 15, 2009

excellent idea!

asge said on October 15, 2009

That is a great idea.... wish u success

said on October 15, 2009

very good and good plane

YEHI said on October 14, 2009

GOOD JOB

woody said on October 14, 2009

GREAT JOB GETAW THIS IS THE KEY FOR AFRICAN DEVLOP.

eva said on October 14, 2009

Good Job Getaw

ayuagribest said on October 14, 2009

I like the idea. Becouse it is the key to eradicate Africans' poverity problem.We Africans,especially Ethiopians have Many rivers
thank you

mesiethiopia said on October 14, 2009

I really appreciate your idea. You are truly visionary I look forward to see your wonderful project implemented in our motherland. I personally believe that some day scholars of Ethiopia all over the world will rescue the water tower of Africa form starvation.
God bless

Belay said on October 14, 2009

I have a dream that an agri-project of your type will one day helping our people and I wish that visionary be you with the sucess I deam.

meseret said on October 14, 2009

I wish you sucess

melesmeseret said on October 14, 2009

what a outstanding and amazing idea!!! I wish you the best.

temari said on October 13, 2009

What a great Idea Getaw may God help your dream to come true.
Good Luck

wolansa said on October 13, 2009

God be with you good job!!!

TATEKE said on October 13, 2009

this is so intersting idea. keep it up!!!

Tadesse said on October 12, 2009

What a visionary are you my fellow Ethiopian,Getaw. I can't wait to see your dream being realized soon as the problem at home is worsening year after year when it comes to securing food.

tagach said on October 12, 2009

Mr. Getaw, what a wonderful idea it is! Ethiopia is rich in it's water resources and cultivatable land. More than 85% of the population is farmer. And every year from 4 to 14 thousand of the population suffer a lot due to shortage of food and drought. The farmer is absolutly poor and unthinkable to buy pumps, build dams, and canals. There is also lack of awareness of the use of irrigation and its techniqes. Your effort is highly appreciated!keep it up! There is always God helping you.

yonissami said on October 12, 2009

I really support your idea...

deby said on October 11, 2009

You areone of the true son of our home country for knowing this good idea in this dificult time we have to start today I am shure every one will agree with this Idea.God bless you

mengist63 said on October 11, 2009

This project is very good Realy this is the key way to the problem of Africa.

deru said on October 11, 2009

Hello Getaw this is a great idea and i want to support this good idea for your country.
good luck

Abebego said on October 11, 2009

this is a good project keep it up......

Adefres said on October 11, 2009

Dear Getaw the idea of irrigation is most productive and fruitful activity for Ethiopia that struggles' againest drought and poverty. Keep it up

Adefres said on October 11, 2009

THIS IS SO GREAT IDEA. KEEP GOING!

salahy said on October 10, 2009

Dear Getaw, your project is an outstanding one. It consists of huge tasks and I believe you would be successful if you get the due support. Considering irrigation as your key strategy method sounds good as Ethiopia is blessed with plenty of rivers, lakes and other water resources.

Best wishes!

biruk said on October 10, 2009

I really like this idea from the very begging,but we really want you to make it happen.If possible please try to elaborate your project in creating awareness to HIV/AIDS.

Wish you all the best!!!

tizazua said on October 9, 2009

good idea!!! Dear Getaw the idea of irrigation is most productive and fruitful activity for Ethiopia that struggles' againest drought and poverty. Keep it up

ayalsewa said on October 9, 2009

great idea.

paultgs said on October 9, 2009

In my opinion your proposal is the perfect innovative idea not only to help Africa; it will eradicate our long term problem of drought and water shortage from the whole continent. It was my aim & dreams that, the ideas like yours to put into practice long time ago, before we lost our population…

Keep up Vs. your good work & inspirations, sooner or later, we all the diasporas will contribute our efforts in order to change the living standard of our people with expertise as well as financially.

helina4613 said on October 9, 2009

I really admire you. I wish Ethiopia had more of you. God be with you and your success.

Tibebu said on October 9, 2009

The smallest good deed is better than the greatest good intention.

ZINAHIBZU said on October 9, 2009

THIS IS SO GREAT IDEA. KEEP GOING I APPRICIAT YOUR IDEA THAT IS REALLY IMPORTANT START FOR THE PEOPLE IN POOR COUNTRY LIKE ETHIOPIA AND WHOM THEY ARE DEPAND ON ANNUAL RAIN WHOSE LIFE IS HAND TO MOUTH.

Frew_Terefe said on October 9, 2009

It's good project.At this time , Ethiopians Farmr must use system of farming that supplies dry land with water by means of ditches,pipes or pump that brings water which makes the land fertile and ready for use. I wish you all the best.

kebede said on October 8, 2009

Thank you brother for showing Ethiopias Problem for the rest of the world this is the only way we will overcome hunger/drought.
thank you once again please do more talk the intelectuals brothers.

God Bless you.

Abu said on October 8, 2009

Thank you hope you will be ok and Millions of Ethiopians wit yu for this Great Idea and the blue Nile river also appreciate you instead flowing to some other countries.I wsh I could sa mor but keep it up.

Abay said on October 8, 2009

Getaw I don't kow what to say, this is a right time for Ethiopia your Idea is the best to over come Africa problem please keep up our suport is with you no mater what.

zuhairhasan1 said on October 7, 2009

I like this idea for africa. Please contact me if any help is needed.
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (951) 818-3332

teshome_abiza said on October 7, 2009

waw what a goreous idea!!

lema said on October 7, 2009

i like your idea and what i read,it is interesting to see you having strong idea for youre country .Good luck and wish u best

fekau said on October 7, 2009

very interesting subject God bless you Just for your positive mental atitude.

yared said on October 6, 2009

Giving back to your country is a noble thing.I believe in your project, Gee. Good luck!Yared

Abebe said on October 6, 2009

My name is Abebe Negash, and I have been out of my country for about 15 years. I was born and raised in Ethiopia.
Just a year ago, during my visit back home, I stood up on a cliff and looked down into the gorges of Wonchit River. I could not believe what I saw, it was devastating. The trees are gone because of the over population of people. The forests that once harboured the Cheetah, Kudu, x
are gone.
I decided to travel on foot to places like Goranda and Chore where most of my relatives live.
In general, it is beyond my knowledge of words to express my observations. For the last 15 years I have dreamed of visiting the place where I was born. But to my horror, I found a world that looks like it’s from another dimension, not as green as I once knew it. The region I knew then was full of forests.
I became sadder and sadder as I walked further and further. We used to have names for individual trees. They shaded us, and gave us fruit. Families used to share lunch under them. In their place is nothing. Not even stumps. No reminders of the past.
When I was a goat herder, I used to be afraid of the Cheetah…now in those eroded places, while traveling on foot, my fear was just poisonous snakes. My friend in Ethiopia Getaw is right, I think over population and lack of modern farming technology is to blame. Hence, I endorse his initiative with the whole of my heart. He has the best solution for millions of Ethiopians who are starving.
In Ethiopia the population growth rate is quite staggering and exponential. As a result, over farming and deforestation rates increase equally. When you add a lack of rain the result is famine.
When I was in 5th grade (during the late 1970s) Ethiopia’s population was 32 million. Now statistics tell us that in 2000 it was 60 million. In 2009 it became over 80 million, and that number is projected to keep increasing with each passing year.
Cloud formation is directly linked to moisture in the air, and with a lack of moisture in the air there will be a shortfall of rain. Look at a desert. If there are no trees there is no way to decrease the temperature, trap moisture, clean the air, create plants, etc. The temperature will remain high, and the moisture in the air will evaporate, leaving the desert below severely lacking rain. I don’t want Ethiopia to become a part of the Sahara desert, which is why the deforestation in my country alarms me so much.
Having said that, the deforestation is due in part to over-population, and lack of prudent agricultural techniques (such as irrigation). With irrigation and crop rotation, a plot of land can be harvested twice a year, either with or without rain. Again Getaw is right, and I support his endeavour fully.
Did you know that Ethiopia is known to be the a place where rivers are abundant, which freely flow away from the people who need them the most. Why is it then that famine is so widespread? It is because the rivers have never been made to fully serve their people. They have never been fully irrigated and controlled.
I asked myself what I can contribute to my country. As a chemical Engineer, I thought of introducing different sources of energy other than burning wood and charcoal. I guess I failed to change things using my profession as a base. Can you imagine producing electricity from Erita Ale, the ever-flaming volcanic crater in the Ethiopian Great Rift Valley? The science behind it is simple. Generate steam from the high temperature of Erita Ale, and then use it to drive turbines and generate electrical power. If there is enough capital, it can be done. I assume the overall budget will never be more than one of the wars Ethiopia has gone through. If the country can finance its wars, or if any outside country managed to finance a war, then generating geothermal energy in Ethiopia can be financed as well. It is free, clean, and has the potential to provide electricity throughout Africa.
Right now the Ethioian government is working hard to provide hydo-electric energy into every Ethiopian home, and even to sell the excess electricity abroad. However due to a shortfall of rain the water levels of the hydro-electric dams are much lower. Consequently electricity in the capital Addis Ababa, and other cities is hard to come by. In the long run this lack of energy will no doubt have an ill effect on Ethiopia itself. This hydo-electric system conflicts with food sources, and could actually standstill the effort to irrigate all over the country. However, the volcano could be a means to jump start the industry, and prevent future farming and elecric conflicts. At any rate, the rivers would be much better, easier to control, and in the long run provide thew best means to irrigate the land. Making Ethiopia strong once again. Let us harness the geothermal energy.
Introducing irrigation and education into the families planning is the best way. Many issues interlock to form this puzzle. I strongly believe that the best way is to harness the rivers potential for food production. A potential that to date, hasn’t been fully exposed. Begin maintaining each tree, while planting new ones, start to harness the rivers, and find a way to generate electricity from alternative energy sources. Do this, and the future will begin to look brighter, and more possible.
Thanks Getaw for bringing these issue to light.

beyene said on October 6, 2009

good job getaw.I wish you all the best.

mesfin said on October 6, 2009

What an interesting model is your work to the local farmers around your projects, I really appreciate your effort and wish you also a success as it means a lot to the farmers around you in changing their common way of farming to a more productive one.

Wnarn said on October 6, 2009

i like what i read,it is interesting idea.Good luck and wish u best

yonnatan said on October 6, 2009

This is the best idea I read so far....!

hayan said on October 5, 2009

Nice idea my support is with this organization

Dewan said on October 5, 2009

sounds awesome you guys are doing great job Hats off

zemenemarkos said on October 5, 2009

Dear Getaw the idea of irrigation is most productive and fruitful activity for Ethiopia that struggles' againest drought and poverty. Keep it up!
Endalew LA

fmireles05 said on October 5, 2009

sounds like an amazing plan.

nigussiehaile said on October 5, 2009

Dear Sir,
Thank you for sharing your vision. With sufficient supply of rivers and other water sources, implementing your vision and ideas could be the solution to reoccuring drought problems. What a graet idea.

julianb said on October 5, 2009

great idea

TayeB said on October 4, 2009

Dear Getaw,
It is a very interesting idea. I think your idea is very important because irrigation is a key solution to tackle drought from Ethiopia. I just want let you know that I am really proud of you.

cokie_b said on October 4, 2009

I really like your idea and i wish you the best.....
GOOD LUCK!!!!!!

akwoldem said on October 4, 2009

I believed that this is improving african. I wish you best luck with it.

tesete said on October 4, 2009

i wish u will be sucessful .

mysoccer said on October 4, 2009

Wow, I am really amazed about the idea. I believe this plan should put Africa in rapid change and get us out from the terrible drought. We all should play our part in helping our continent and I’m glad to indorse people like Getaw Cherinet, because their plan will lead Africa to a brighter future.

sol_dan1997 said on October 4, 2009

Getaw your vision to Ethiopia will empower peoples towards self-suficency. Ethiopia has a grat deal of agricultural resources though still the country is underdeveloped and poor. Your vision will help us to tackle the challenges of the millenium.
Cheers,
Tesfaye

abe_lakew said on October 4, 2009

First, I applaud your effort for starting this agricultural venture in one of the most rural places of Ethiopia. Having said that, I recommend the following improvements or additions to your writeup:
1. Expand and try articulate on your mission statement by focusing on what you want to achieve in the short-term as well as on what you plan to achieve in the long-term as well. You can structure the write-up with titles and sub-titles comprising of a few paragraphs(please see already established Business Plans as sample on structure and substance).
2. Also, include what you have already achieved and provide a detailed list of achievements and/or future plans and developments, if any.
3. You can also add pictures or graphics to attract or 'entice' potential investors and donors alike (both domestic or international/diaspora).

4. Clearly state the problems you have encountered working on this project and in addition, succinctly state the opportunities that this project will provide to potential investors and anyone interested in supporting this endeavor.

I wish you all the best!
-Abraham.

Berhanyibra said on October 4, 2009

Dear Getaw,

i am glade that you are taking such a big part to make a difference in our country in agricultural sector. It is my firm believe that you would be successful if keep up your good work. I know you have already done some.
This is a novel idea. I know how difficult it is difficult at the stage of project implementation. However be determined to make it happen and i will be more than happy to stand with you if you need any help from me.
My best wishes to your success

Addamu said on October 4, 2009

I really like this idea. Drought is one of the issues facing east Africa and Africa in general. It is not caused by lack of resources but not utilizing the resources.

Terefech said on October 4, 2009

This is a great contribution to Ethiopia as well as Africa. We are sure that we are going see the result of your objective the soonest possible and we have no doubt for it.

Terefech Tadesse
From Virginia

alexcz3113 said on October 3, 2009

Hi Getaw!
What a big vision man! The continent Africa and our country Ethiopia needs such a visionary individual like you and I hope God will help you and your vision grow. The population of the country is growing at an alarming rate and if the current trend continues the way it is now, it is expected that the country will be the 5th most populous nation on the planet by the year 2050 with an estimated population of 278 million. To make sure that each member of our communities will have sufficient food supply and other human basic services, investment in utilizing the so many rivers the country has for irrigation and modernizing the subsistent agricultural practice will be mandatory not an option. I hope you will be a pioneer and all of us will follow your foot step! I am excited for you! Keep up the good job you have started and follow your dreams! Inspiring investment!

Alemu M.
From Seattle

rbraham said on October 3, 2009

i have seen quite a few projects and interested ideas but this particular project irrigation is really a key to take on drought in Africa. I encourage everyone to support such idea and endorse this endeavor.

yared_feleke said on October 3, 2009

I think Getaw's idea is the best because it benefits not only the economy of Ethiopia but also it's people. His solution to fixing the water shortages is practical, and definitely something worth supporting because it will have an impact on millions of lives. Good work Getaw and thanks so much.

asheten said on October 3, 2009

It's a very wonderful idea . I belive youre project will be a development for Africa and i am proud of what your doing i encorage you to keep up....

Africanboy said on October 3, 2009

i like your ideas because they offer a practical solutions to the problem of water shortage and lack of education of the farmers in ethiopia. I support your initiative.

DESTA2NG said on October 3, 2009

WHAT INTERESTING IDEA. I REALY APPRECIAT YOUR COURAGE TO FACE CHALENG AND HELP YOUR PEOPLE.IRRIGATION IS THE BEST SOLUTION TO ALLIVATE POVERITY IN ETHIOPIA. KEEP IT UP .BROTHER.

tzeleke said on October 3, 2009

It is a wonderful idea. The agony and suffering of our people would be changed by the work of like you Getaw. Irrigation is a key factor in modernizing and advancing agriculture in Africa specifically in Ethiopia. I endorse your initiative and keep the hard work going. One day our Ethiopia will be the bread basket of east Africa.

mznell17 said on October 3, 2009

Giving back to your country is a noble thing.I believe in your project, Gee. Good luck! - Nell

tesetea said on October 3, 2009

Getaw!You have a great vision for Africa in particular for Ethiopia.Realy Irrigation is the Key and best solution to tackle drought from Africa/Ethiopia.

bruktawitasfaw said on October 3, 2009

I really support your idea because it will alleviate the scarcity of food due to drought.

Sergut said on October 2, 2009

I am really proud of seeing such an amazing idea for Africa. Indeed, irrigation is the key for Africa to take on drought. Quite right! Getaw, please keep on doing what you are doing and accomplish what you are planning. Once again, I am really pleased to see such a marvelous initiative for Africa.

asfawshone said on October 2, 2009

I suport Mr. Getaw's idea, because irrigation is very important for rural development for the country such as Ethiopia who are sufering by draught for a long period of time. It Enables the society to reduce dependency on seasonan rainfal.

abiy said on October 2, 2009

It's proposal with a big vision for the farmers of Ethiopia. not only it has a plan on how to improve the agricultural methods but also how people can profit through this plan. It's a plan that considers different aspects of the farmers lives, such as finance, health care, education on agricultural innovations.

zinawtl said on October 1, 2009

Getaw this is really great job.you got the point that is the key to save the life of our people. I personally know the area which need this techinology that is one step forward to the people .great job.

kalicha said on October 1, 2009

ha!! that is one of excellent idea, kudos.Getaw, i'm kenyan -ethiopian, i mean one of my parents are formerly from Ethiopia-south part.indeed,i want to know how you are dispense that oustanding project to reach south because their are pathetic people

best regard
kalicha kosi