. Special measures may be needed to ensure that women know about the project. Be sure to use information channels that will reach women. Women will need information about the reasons and means for them to take part in the project. A gender approach in communication is required. Reaching men effectively is also important to ensure that women have the freedom to attend meetings and to participate in a project. For example: if women have low levels of literacy, printed information can be supplemented by personal contacts, the use of non-print media, and meetings with women’s groups. . Although both men and women should be interviewed when gathering information, holding separate meetings with women could facilitate freer discussions. Small neighbourhood meetings will also facilitate women’s participation. For example; women may find it easier to speak for themselves in separate meetings rather than through men. The strategy of women interviewing women will also put women at ease. . Think about the practical arrangements of a meeting, such as: seating arrangements; the timing of the meeting; the venue or place; awareness of and invitation to attend; the facilitation of “speaking out” (e.g. the use of discussion breaks, a spokeswomen); the use of participatory techniques; and the use of the local language or dialect. For example; seating arrangements should try to ensure that women are not forced to sit in the back where it could be difficult for them to hear or speak out. Meetings must be held at a time and place suitable for women, e.g. not at the time when the main meal of the day is being cooked. . Involving women is crucial in matters related to their own roles, knowledge and interests as it relates to water aspects. For example; ensuring adequate representation of women can give women a greater say in decisions about operations, management, financing, and sharing arrangements, and at the same time facilitate inclusion of their knowledge in the project. . Try to link women’s planned activities in the project with their traditional work. For example: women’s traditional tasks can be expanded to include newer roles. Women may also feel encouraged to participate when project activities are linked with the possibility of generating income. . Women should choose their own representatives so as to ensure trust, ease of contact, leadership capacities and feasibility. Grass-roots organisations and groups can help facilitate and legitimize women’s participation. Think about: local NGOs that work with women in the area; national women's organisations that have good grassroots linkages; government ministries that work with women in the area; and local women with management level experience. . Have female project staff. They could serve as an encouragement for women to get involved in the community. Overall, raise the gender awareness of all project staff. . Make use of a female intermediary who can contact and gather women. She has to be someone who, by virtue of her training and position (e.g. as midwife or schoolteacher), is acceptable. She should be someone who has sufficient respect, status, commitment and confidence to take on this role.