Drip irrigation offers smallholder farmers a cost-effective solution for improving water use efficiency and crop productivity. By delivering water directly to the root zone, it reduces water loss, enhances nutrient uptake, and supports higher yields with lower input costs. This review examines the economic and agronomic benefits of adopting low-cost drip systems for small-scale farms, highlighting case studies from diverse cropping regions. It also addresses challenges such as system maintenance, initial investment, and farmer training, and presents strategies for promoting adoption and maximizing returns. The potential of drip irrigation to improve food security and livelihoods for smallholder farmers is emphasized.
