Abstract

In Nigeria's attempt to attain self-sufficiency in rice production, numerous irrigation projects have been established throughout the nation. The lower Anambra Rice Irrigation Project is currently the largest such project in Nigeria and comprises 35% of the nearly 12000 hectares of rice fields. Based on evidence from within and outside the West African region, it is being increasingly felt that adequate safeguards and preventive measures on health have not been considered in these schemes. It is thought that endemic diseases in the area may increase and that nutrition-related problems in the affected communities might result. This project will attempt to elucidate the health-related impact of the Lower Anambra Irrigation Project on surrounding communities. Specifically, vector-borne diseases (malaria, schistosomiasis), socioeconomic indicators, and nutritional status of the people will be assessed and correlated so that appropriate recommendations for action can be made to the responsible authorities and government.

Post-Project Summary

The project was terminated before completion due to problems during implementation and poor performance in meeting project objectives. It was noted that political and economic difficulties impeded the project. A progress report concluded that the irrigation water of the Lower Anambra Irrigation Project was not suitable for human consumption (based on the microbiological quality) and posed a considerable health danger even for use in sanitation purposes. Researchers noted that rice cultivation produced regular and seasonal water catchments conducive to introducing or enhancing vector-borne diseases (bilharzia and malaria) and water-borne diseases (typhoid and cholera).

Recipient Institution(s)