AUDIO CASSETTE LISTENING FORUMS - A PARTICIPATORY WOMEN"S DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

Evaluation covers the period 11/77-11/78 and is based on an onsite review, including participant interviews. The project was carried out in the villages of Majengo and Kimundo. Project activities included a needs resource survey, production of problem-posing and information tapes, group discussions, and implementation of action plans. A formative evaluation of the participants" reactions and involvement was an ongoing part of the project. Evaluators conclude that the project implementation method is viable. The use of audio cassettes was particularly appropriate since many of the participants were illiterate (67% in Majengo). Also, the tapes extended the reach of extension personnel and proved especially useful during the cholera quarantine when project staff were unable to enter the village. The project encouraged attitude changes and was instrumental in instigating development activities involving latrine construction, water supply, child care and nutrition, the establishment of a low-cost clothing store, and combatting drunkenness. Most of these changes, however, took place in Majengo. Several reasons can be given: (1) The village of Kimundo is relatively weathly, and their needs went far beyond the basics. (2) Kimundo, which is close to a large town and bus transport, already had access to many services unavailable to the women of Majengo. It is recommended that for any future projects, project planners seek out villages where needs are basic and which have little or no group organization and are not currently involved in development activities. This report provides a detailed outline of the project"s implementation and background. A bibliography (XD-AAG-347-1) and samples of evaluation questionnaires are attached.