This study discusses low-cost drip irrigation in the context of Southern Africa by examining two low-cost drip irrigation systems with different emitter discharge rates (0.2 and 2.5 l h_1) that were used to irrigate tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. cv. "Daniella") with water of three different salinity levels (0, 3 and 6 dS m_1). Furthermore, the study showed that the choice of drip irrigation system with regard to discharge rate is of minor importance when irrigating with saline water.