Communication for development provides relevant information and a voice to people and communities affected by poverty. People like small-scale farmers in the developing world, who play an essential role in food security, despite their often precarious and insecure livelihoods - as these farmers are particularly vulnerable to climatic and economic shocks.
One of the best ways to improve productivity of small-scale farms is to share knowledge and information enabling farmers to make good decisions about what and how to farm. WUSC works in partnership with Farm Radio International to implement innovative solutions to overcome the challenges small-scale farmers in the developing world face.
Radio is a popular and accessible communication tool that can provide a voice to farmers by putting rural people on the air, where they can raise questions and express their needs. Radio is an especially effective communication solution in resource-poor, underserved and isolated areas with low levels of literacy. New communication technologies like mobile phones enhance the reach, interactivity and sustainability of radio.
Through WUSC’s partnership with Farm Radio International and local radio partners, we are:
- Engaging farmers in dialogue on innovative ways to enhance food security and sustainable livelihoods. We provide relevant content for radio programming across 38 countries in sub-Saharan Africa and train broadcasters in participatory radio methods for farmer-focused programs.
WUSC also uses communication for development to promote social change by: