Arguing that the information needs of the rural community are largely ignored in the establishment of information systems and services, this paper: (1) identifies the unique characteristics of information users in rural areas; (2) identifies and analyzes the types of communication channels most likely to deliver the information related to agriculture, health, fishing, and forestry that is needed by this user group; and (3) suggests that ways of managing information resources to serve this type of community should be included in the formulation of a national information policy in Zambia. It is noted that the types of information resources suitable for this group, which depends largely on oral and visual aids for the communication of ideas and information exchange, are what are usually referred to in the literature as an "indigenous communication system," as opposed to an "exotic communication system," which does not operate within the channels existing in the particular society. The importance of accepting rural people's knowledge as a national resource to be utilized in national development efforts is discussed, as well as the implications of this particular issue for the formulation of national information policy. (12 references) (EW)