This paper outlines an ongoing research project that investigates how the available freshwater allocation can be improved on smallholder farms in the Vhembe district in northern South Africa.  During the initial stages of the project, site visits were conducted and local farmers in the village of Vhulaudzi were interviewed about the typical water availability for irrigation and livestock. The smallholder farmers stressed that climate change and altered rainfall patterns were affecting the crop and livestock production negatively.  The site visits revealed several possible improvements to the water distribution system, such as upgrading irrigation schemes and implementing water pipelines instead of open canals. The main irrigation method on the fields was traditional furrow irrigation, which has low water-efficiency. Previous studies have shown that drip irrigation increase water efficiency up to 70% in maize production, which is the primary crop grown in the Vhembe district. Drip irrigation is furthermore beneficial for soil health, as it causes less soil compaction and erosion and provides a more even soil moisture than furrow irrigation or flooding. By investing in drip irrigation, additional freshwater is made available for livestock, which play an important role for the provision of nutrition and income for the local farmers.  In the planned continuation of the project, the principles of regenerative agriculture will be tested together with drip irrigation in comparative field investigations in the village of Vhulaudzi. The economic feasibility for the local farmers, weighing investment cost, long- and short-term profit and ecological and environmental benefits will then be analysed. Results from the study will be disseminated to the local communities in the Vhembe district to promote sustainable and efficient use of water and land. This initiative aims to improve the economy and health conditions on smallholder farms.