Baro-Akobo River Basin Integrated Development Master Plan - Annex 1H: Irrigation Projects
Key Findings
1. Study Area Overview
- Covers 75,912 km² in southwestern Ethiopia
- Includes parts of four Administrative Regions
- Population: 2.2 million (90% in highlands, 92% rural)
- Main rivers: Baro, Alwero, Akobo, and Gilo
2. Irrigation Potential Assessment
Upper Basin: 18 projects identified but most unsuitable due to high rainfall, poor land quality, forest concerns, and high costs ($10,200-$143,600/ha)
Lower Basin: Significant potential (480,000 ha net), 14 systems studied, costs $8,200-$17,400/ha
3. Recommended Projects
- Baro River Right Bank (Itang Dam) - 50,900 ha, $8,235/ha
- Alvero Project (Abobo Dam) - 10,400 ha, $8,405/ha (under construction)
- Alvero Dumbong System - 15,000 ha, $8,408/ha
- Gilo River Right Bank (Gilo 2 Dam) - 46,900 ha, $9,212/ha
4. Economic Analysis
Economic rates of return: 10.0%-12.6% for top projects
Conclusions
Primary irrigation potential in Gambela Plain (Lower Basin). Recommend implementing top four projects, completing Alvero Project first, and conducting prefeasibility study for Baro Right Bank-Itang Dam.
Appendices
Includes detailed profiles for 6 major dam/irrigation projects with technical specifications and cost estimates.