This paper presents an overview of the level of attained benefits of irrigated agriculture in terms of food production and the country’s food sufficiency, contribution to the economy and poverty alleviation, state of irrigation and drainage development, and farmers’ involvement and institutions throughout the history of irrigation development. It cites notable management initiatives of irrigators associations in some NIS. It posits strategic areas to improve the institutional and financial situations of farmers and the performance of irrigation and drainage systems. It recommends some improvements to involve farmers in increasing food production and alleviating poverty.