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The African National Congress has launched a mobile phone application to facilitate greater user engagement with the organization`s 4th National General Council (NGC) underway at Gallagher Estates, Midrand.

The app is designed primarily for delegates to the NGC; who are able to access discussion documents, session information, conference reports and other relevant documentation.Among the unique features of the new app is that it allows users to pose questions to and exchange views on the proceedings. Importantly, these questions and comments will be collated for consideration in the final conference reports.

This process will be undertaken by the on-site ANC Information and Publicity team working together with the Drafting Team.The new interactive ANC NGC app also enables registered users to personalize their schedules and share contact information with other delegates. Organisers will be able to send push notifications to registered delegates on schedules, upcoming sessions, and other NGC information.

The launch of the NGC app is part of the ANC`s broader media strategy that prioritizes the use of digital tools to reach out to its membership, and the public at large. This digital media strategy dubbed "Connect. Engage. Hear" embraces all tools of digital media engagement, including mobile, email and smart devices - in addition to traditional platforms already being utilized by the ANC. Embracing digital communication tools, particularly mobile, as part of the organization`s communications drive is in furtherance of the 53rd National Conference resolution that "urgent and practical steps must be taken to professionalize and modernize the operations of the ANC".

"The launch of this app is part of our broader strategy to remain at the cutting edge of political communications, but at the same time ensure that our commitment to inclusive, transparent and participatory democracy is prioritized," says Zizi Kodwa, ANC National Spokesperson. "We know that millions of South Africans from all sectors of society are keen to engage the ANC; we will continue to experiment with all manner of communication tools to ensure their voices are heard," adds Kodwa.

The ANC NGC app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Users must register upon accessing the application for the first time. To access the registration page users must enter the password: FP9KW

Issued by ANC