As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we recognize the critical role women play in Rural Communication Services (RCS), ensuring that vital information reaches even the most remote communities. Women in RCS are not only communicators—they are advocates, educators, and change-makers who bridge knowledge gaps and empower rural populations through inclusive and participatory communication.
In this article, we highlight the contributions of women in RCS, their struggles, and the impact of their work. We also explore insights from previous CCComDev articles that showcase the stories, experiences, and best practices of women who are shaping the future of rural communication.
1. Women RCS Researchers
In 2023, three women researchers were awarded the IAMCR-FAO Rural Communication Services (RCS) Research Awards. They presented their papers at a special panel during the IAMCR 2023 Conference in Lyon, France on July 12, 2023 where they were also formally recognized. Read more here.
2. Empowering Women in Indonesian Palm Oil Plantations through ICT
To address the challenges faced by women in the palm oil plantations industry in Indonesia, researchers at Bogor Agricultural University (IPB) developed the application, RUMAH SAWIT. It is an integrated platform for community engagement, communication, education, and health, supported by an information technology system. It also serves as a digital-based information centre with consultation and reporting mechanisms for violence against women in palm oil plantations. Read more in this RCS blog by Asri Sulistiawati here.
3. Communication for Connection: The Grassroot Version
Obianujunwa Umahi highlights in her RCS blog the crucial role of Rural Communication Services (RCS) in bridging the information gap in Nigeria, especially among rural women. By ensuring that even the most isolated communities have access to timely and relevant news, RCS empowers rural populations, supports local development, and promotes inclusion.
4. Women RCS leaders
In an interview with Radio Central Ferroviaria in Argentina on August 24, Gissela Dávila, the general director of the International Center for Advanced Studies in Communication for Latin America (CIESPAL), discussed the work of Onda Rural and its advocacies addressing development issues such as food sovereignty and family farming.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.