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<p>Shallow groundwater (SGW) is an additional water source for low-income farmers in water-scarce regions, yet its potential remains underexplored compared to surface-water resources, particularly at small scales. This study adopts a participatory approach to analyze the use of SGW for agricultural activities, the techniques employed, and the factors that facilitate or hinder its effective utilization in Zambezia, a Province in central Mozambique. Data were collected through interviews, field visits, and open discussions with members of farmer groups across six communities in the province. The findings reveal that the communities rely on SGW for both agricultural and domestic purposes, primarily by digging traditional shallow dug wells. However, limited water availability during the dry season constrains the utilization of SGW aquifers, concentrating agricultural production in the rainy season to satisfy crop water requirements. Additionally, limited technical and financial resources restrict the use of advanced techniques such as well casing, lining, and mechanized augering, which are essential for safer and deeper well construction. This limitation prevents access to larger volumes of groundwater. To increase SGW utilization, it is essential to adopt techniques that enable safer and deeper excavations and to invest in alternative methods that improve the structural integrity and protection of wells.</p>

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Shallow groundwater use for agriculture in central Mozambique: Opportunities and constraints in Zambezia Province

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

    开放获取

  • 发表日期：

    2026年5月18日

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  • Valdemiro Pitoro,
  • Victor Oliveira,
  • José Franco,
  • Matheus Raniero,
  • Rodrigo Sánchez-Román

摘要

Shallow groundwater (SGW) is an additional water source for low-income farmers in water-scarce regions, yet its potential remains underexplored compared to surface-water resources, particularly at small scales. This study adopts a participatory approach to analyze the use of SGW for agricultural activities, the techniques employed, and the factors that facilitate or hinder its effective utilization in Zambezia, a Province in central Mozambique. Data were collected through interviews, field visits, and open discussions with members of farmer groups across six communities in the province. The findings reveal that the communities rely on SGW for both agricultural and domestic purposes, primarily by digging traditional shallow dug wells. However, limited water availability during the dry season constrains the utilization of SGW aquifers, concentrating agricultural production in the rainy season to satisfy crop water requirements. Additionally, limited technical and financial resources restrict the use of advanced techniques such as well casing, lining, and mechanized augering, which are essential for safer and deeper well construction. This limitation prevents access to larger volumes of groundwater. To increase SGW utilization, it is essential to adopt techniques that enable safer and deeper excavations and to invest in alternative methods that improve the structural integrity and protection of wells.