Information Revolutions; How information and communication management is changing the lives of rural people

This book presents around 40 examples of mainly local or national organisations in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific, who have changed the way communication works and thereby made a difference to the lives and livelihoods of rural people. They cover a wide range of communication systems and issues, including radio and television, newspapers and newsletters, literacy programmes, computers and telecommunications, farmers’ groups and markets, farmers’ knowledge, research and extension links, research networks, and libraries. Just one example is the broadcasting of a radio soap opera in Kenya that is designed to deal with various development issues. The ‘soap opera for development’ engages with topics such as pest management, malaria, and gender relations. The radio show has recognised that drama is a powerful way of communicating, and is also able to bring out nuances of a problem and present different arguments. Importantly, it is entertaining, and an independent study has shown that about 36% of Kenyans set aside time to listen to the soap opera.