In African countries, the main programmes are concerned with electrification of small towns; the larger villages and the larger businesses located in or near them.. Autogeneration is the main option, although public supplies can be contemplated in areas close to the main networks. However, in .10 years ti-.11e, these programmes are unlikely to `have extended service to more than one tenth of the village rural population. .Several countries in Asia are in the midst of a strong push toward electrifying the large and medium sized villages and the surrounding farms and agro industries. `In some cases, as in parts of India and the Republic of China, the programmes are also extended toward the smaller villages. Public supplies from the grid are the main option, autogeneration being an alternative for small or remote demands. About one fourth of the village rural population might be receiving service in 10 years time. The information provided would prove useful to Wapda`s staff engaged on rural electrification.