The international Programme for Technology and Research in Irrigation and Drainage (IPTRID) commissioned this report on the status and prospects for treadle pumps in Africa, particularly concerning how smallholders can take up such devices to support irrigation. In view of the fact that treadle pumps are now being used in many African countries, this document is a state-of-the-art report. It identifies what needs to be done by agencies, donors, NGOs and manufacturers to make such pumps acceptable and accessible for smallholders. It is aimed at irrigation professionals, donors, decision makers and NGOs promoting small-scale irrigation in Africa. Information has been provided from many sources. Particular reference is made to the national experts who were commissioned by IPTRlD to collect up-to-date information from a number of African countries. The report begins with a review of the different treadle pumps currently in use in Africa and the information available on their technical performance, with a view to trying to answer the question - Which is the best treadle pump? Or perhaps more appropriately - Which is the best for a given situation? This is followed by reports prepared by national experts on the experience of using treadle pumps in different countries across Africa. These principally address the important issues of economic and social impact of this technology change, its acceptability and sustainability. This experience should help those who are just beginning to think about treadle pumps, wondering if they are right for them and, if so, how best to introduce them into their situation.