RESEARCH MATERIAL An exploratory study of information availability and exploitation by the rural women of Melmoth, KwaZulu-Natal

The article reports on a study that explored the information needs of the rural women and how they are fulfilled in the area of Melmoth, KwaZulu-Natal. Through a normative survey method and critical incident technique. 109 women were interviewed and questionnaires administered to 18 community leaders. Observation was also used to collect primary data. The study found that there is a need for suitable information on agriculture. health. education, business, legal and career opportunities as well as self-help related activities. Such information should be available closer to the home environment, in visual and sound formats. orally delivered by people closer to the community such as friends. relatives and neighbours as well as community leaders. Methods of information transmission should be overwhelmingly oral. including greater use of radio and television transmission. Largely. the findings are consistent with similar studies conducted elsewhere in the developing countries