Presidency launches new web-based media database

“The primary purpose is for us to keep in touch with media practitioners at all times as they play a very important role in ensuring that we keep the general citizenry informed about the government programme,” Terrence Manase, a spokesperson for the Presidency, told Bizcommunity.com last night, Thursday 16 April.

Manase explained: “It was from a realisation that media practitioners move around a lot from one stable to another and this has proven difficult to track them down.

“Because practitioners personally update their details on the web, this ensures that they are always on the database even when they change stables/media houses. The tool allows us to send information directly to inboxes and we can even send out SMSes.”

The move comes at the time when more and more politicians in the developed world, inspired by charismatic US President Barack Obama, are taking full advantage of the web's versatility and benefits to stay in touch with ordinary citizens.

Asked whether the SA Presidency has been inspired by the US President, Manase replied: “The US President's communication method came at a time when we also had this tool in mind.”

Nevertheless, some journalists are said to be frustrated with the government's unwillingness to communicate effectively with the media, accusing politicians of lack of transparency and withholding vital information. Manase said he was hopeful the tool would only better the good relations the Presidency already has with members of the media.

“We relied on conventional methods such as email, fax and we had to keep a record of media practitioners, which has proven a challenge when we had to from time to time try and update,” he said.

“We try to respond to each and every query that we receive. All queries are important to us,” said Manase, who appealed to journalists to register. Once registered, journalists can amend their contact details when necessary.

Interested journalists are invited to register their details by visiting www.thepresidency.gov.za/login.php and fill out the registration form.