Definition: Approaches for irrigation delivery under non-ownership arrangements for agricultural producers
Examples of smallholder IaaS:
• Informal pump ‘sharing’ with range of payment types
• Pump, pipe and hose rental from micro- or small enterprises (MSEs) • Water ‘buying’ from others
Why focus on IaaS
Plugging into what already works is a pathway to scaling.
• Already in practice by smallholders under context-specific arrangements
• Cost tends to align with smallholder affordability
• Enables flexibility compared to ownership
• Breaks constraints common to purchasing equipment
• Reduces risks for scale-scale irrigators
• Opportunity for small enterprises in agriculture, e.g., local technicians
Assess the existing scope, and potential profitability, scalability, and investment approaches, for IaaS. Zooming in on pump and equipment rental through technician shops (e.g., small motor mechanics, electricians).