Institutional innovation in small-scale irrigation networks: a Cape Verdean case

Examines the economic performance of small-scale irrigation networks in Cape Verde. These networks were installed and are nominally operated by a national agency, but local farmers undertake most of the day-to-day management of the system. Recent economic changes in Cape Verde have created strong pressures for change in irrigated agriculture. The degree and manner in which existing irrigation management institutions have permitted response to these economic pressures are analyzed in relation to the theoretical descriptions of institutional change already outlined.