Female journalists are often excluded from informal networks within newsrooms and from access to information about training and resources. For example, while male jounralists may enhance their visibility and career opportunities by socialising with colleagues after work, this kind of networking is still considered inappropriate for women in many cultures.

In light of this type of "culture", this resource directory is designed to help these women reach out to their colleagues by linking them to institutions and opportunities that can offer them support, training, knowledge, and connections. Specifically, it contains guidelines and tips, case studies, interviews with experienced journalists, and information about workshops. A guide to the basics of good journalism - objectivity, accuracy, and news value - is also included.

The listing also includes national and regional media associations; women's media networks in Africa; and international press freedom and media groups. The goal is to encourage women to contact and join associations in their own countries, as well as to spawn alliances among organisations. Contact information is provided.

One purpose of the publication is to help female journalists in Africa report more effectively on HIV/AIDS. The manual suggests angles for stories, and ideas for interviews with political and public-policy leaders. The guide stresses the need to be frank when dealing with people living with HIV/AIDS or their relatives. It also tries to show journalists how to overcome some of their own AIDS-related prejudices.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP/Bureau for Africa) supported the publication of this directory; the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) and United States Information Service (USIS) provided information included in this directory.