Identification of the participants

The following points should be taken into account for the identification and selection of participating farmers:

• Compiling a list of potential local farmers according to the intended activity of the project
• Informing local farmers about the purpose of the project in a joint meeting or through individual presentations
• Identify participants and form a learning group, identify around 30-40 farmers who share a common concern and interest in the topic. Selecting a larger number of farmers at the beginning helps, as the group is likely to shrink after the first few meetings.
• Selecting established groups such as self-help groups, youth groups and/or women's groups.
• It is recommended that the participant is the decision-maker on the farm.
• Should attend most or all sessions and be willing to participate in the group and share ideas and knowledge with other farmers.

The facilitator’s familiarity with the history of the community, its cultural practices, gender relations, and potential areas of conflict are important elements in the selection process. Groups may consist of same-gender or mixed gender depending on the culture and topic.