Water Equity in Action: A Phenomenographic Study on Irrigation Staff’s Experiences in Promoting Inclusive Access to Irrigation Services

This phenomenographic study investigated the qualitatively different ways in which irrigation staff perceive and promote inclusive access to irrigation water services. Data were collected via written interviews from 19 purposively sampled irrigation personnel, revealing conceptions that range from strict adherence to formal water allocations to holistic approaches emphasizing social justice, participatory inclusion, and empowerment of marginalized farmers. Findings indicate that frontline discretion and community engagement are pivotal in operationalizing equity beyond formal policies. The study recommends flexible allocation frameworks, strengthened participatory governance, and enhanced staff training on equity principles. These insights advance understanding of water equity in irrigation governance and inform policies aimed at fostering more inclusive and sustainable water management systems.