Shallow groundwater characterization for small-scale irrigation in the Northeastern Amhara, Ethiopia

This study assesses the aquifer characterization for small-scale irrigation in the semi-arid Northeastern Amhara Region, Ethiopia, focusing on the Kobo, Girana and Cheffa districts. The study involved the integrated techniques of geophysical survey using Vertical Electrical Sounding employing Schlumberger array, field check of existing hand-dug wells, hydrological studies and soil properties analysis. The results indicate substantial shallow groundwater potential, at Kobo , Girana , and Cheffa , where farmers have successfully excavated hand-dug wells. The borehole data indicates at Kobo, Girana, and Cheffa exhibit static water levels at depths of 8 m, 5 m, and 10 m, with corresponding total drilled depths of 40 m, 13 m, and 32 m, respectively. The identified potential land was 862 ha of land suitable for shallow groundwater coverage, comprising 448 ha in Kobo, 200 ha in Girana, and 214 ha in Cheffa. However, there are significant gaps between potential and actual use with only 220 ha and 150 ha irrigated in Kobo and Cheffa respectively. The pumping discharge data from 25 boreholes in Cheffa indicated a uniform yield of 16.6 L/sec with a total annual capacity of about 130,994 m 3 . The cumulative discharge rates from the Kobo and Girana well field indicated the opportunity for substantial agricultural development. The optimized development of shallow groundwater could provide for up to three growing seasons annually, contributing significantly to food security and agricultural productivity. These results provide critical scientific evidence for policymakers, planners, and local communities to optimize groundwater utilization while ensuring long-term sustainability in this drought-prone region.