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Argues that communication, not technology, should be the central concern of ICT activities. Points out that strong health systems and other basic services are essential for effective use of ICTs. Establishes that local ownership, participation and content improve the relevance of ICT activities, in conjunction with increased capacity to access, organise, repackage and use information effectively. ICTs should complement other communication work and be integrated into broader programmes

This paper discusses the lack of empirical evidence or analyses of local information and communication technology (ICT) applications, and their impact on people's social and economic lives. While there is a lot of information about the potential benefits of using ICT to alleviate poverty and promote equity, the lack of monitoring and evaluation in this area means that guidelines for the effective deployment of ICT, and its appropriation at the local level, have not evolved

Provides a framework for pro-poor ICT based initiatives, in the context of globalisation and the rights to information and freedom of expression. Discusses 'old' versus new and emerging ICTs, concluding that the lure of technological and infrastructural solutions has tended to divert attention away from ICTs that poor people actually use - but that the convergence of old and new ICT presents opportunities. Suggests that donors should support the private sector and governments in developing pro-poor strategies. Advocates careful strategic planning and judicious use of appropriate media in every communications initiative

This handbook is the result of work across three continents and engages the ideas and skills of women and men from a variety of sectors including those from NGOs, scholars, political leaders and development practitioners. It is a tool adaptable to any community, designed to enhance women’s participation and leadership in various spheres of social interaction and decision-making. It is based on the concept that women need to be empowered if they are to achieve their rights, participate in building civil society, and help attain sustainable and equitable development. The handbook seeks to enable the reader to identify for herself and develop the best means to communicate, listen, build consensus, create shared meaning, and foster learning partnerships at work, at home, and in her community. There are twelve workshop sessions in the book, useful for facilitating leadership training sessions but also as a general resource for facilitating any type of meeting. The first part of the book is about ‘Developing the Self for Leadership’, the second concerns ‘Communicating with Others’ and the third is ‘Creating Learning Partnerships’. Appendices contain alternative culture-specific sessions, ideas for alternative lesson and exercise facilitation tactics, and strategies for enhancing communication among workshop participants