Projects designers often ignore the information exchange component at the planning stage. There is frequently no provision for continuous learning or exchange of information with facilitators or project managers, for example. Few projects have an integrated learning, visibility and replicability. Some NGO projects are very effective, but few people know about them. There is severe lack of awareness about existing programmes and projects which result in wasted potential and duplication of efforts.
Language is a serious barrier to communication.
For example, environment and development conventions are conducted in languages that most local people cannot fully understand. Local people are not familiar with terms and concepts used, which cannot be easily translated since they represent experiences which are not culturally pervasive. One of the problems perceived was the over abundance of information and the need to filter it to use what is relevant. Most of the environment and development information produced in the North is not specific to local needs. A concern was how to take advantage of the North's information capabilities to benefit Africa.