From Flood to Drip: Smarter Water Use in Jordan’s Farms

The Al-Sharaa brothers in Al Husun, Irbid, have transformed their family farms by switching from traditional flood irrigation to modern drip irrigation, thanks to support from GEFF Jordan and the Housing Bank for Trade and Finance (HBTF).

Farming vegetables such as potatoes, eggplants, tomatoes, and carrots, the brothers had relied on flood irrigation for generations. While their fields were green, the method consumed large amounts of water, caused uneven crop growth, and limited overall yields.

Motivated to reduce water waste, increase crop productivity, and cut costs, the brothers chose to invest in drip irrigation systems through three GEFF loans totaling US$ 185,874. The project was supported with US$ 18,635 in cashback incentives, giving immediate financial relief and rewarding their sustainable choice.

The drip irrigation system delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing waste, promoting healthier growth, and making water use more predictable. Similar farms using this technology have seen up to 35% water savings compared to flood irrigation, and the Al-Sharaa brothers are already noticing lower costs and stronger crops.

By adopting this energy- and water-efficient technology, the brothers are not only improving the profitability and reliability of their farms but also contributing to the preservation of Jordan’s scarce water resources.

The Green Economy Financing Facility (GEFF) in Jordan is developed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and is supported by the European Union (EU) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF).