Dimitra is a participatory information and communication project which contributes to improving the visibility of rural populations, women in particular. The project builds the capacities of rural populations, women in particular, through information dissemination and the exchange of experiences. It aims at helping rural women and their organizations to make their voices heard at national and international levels and to make development actors more gender sensitive. Dimitra Clubs guiding principles are: (1) to work closely with local partner organizations, (2) to encourage active participation of civil society organizations, and (3) to support the exchange of good practices and experiences. The Clubs promote access to information and communication, have an action-oriented mechanism, are owned by the members, stimulate active and voluntary participation of the community, promote gender equality, collaborate with local radio stations, and receive guidance and technical support from the FAO-Dimitra program.
Over 1300 Dimitra Clubs exist in sub-Saharan Africa today, involving about 30.000 women and men.
Impact has been achieved in terms of social mobilization and local governance, strengthening community capabilities in organizational, analytical, synthesis, communication and networking skills, social changes, transformation of gender relations, women’s leadership, and better use of information. The Dimitra approach is currently only applied in Africa but has potential for outscaling to parts of Asia and Latin America.
