Issued by: Government Communications (GCIS)
MANDELA IN CYBERSPACE www.gov.za
Hot on the heels of the recent launch of the Government's one-stop website, transparency enters a new era with the live Internet broadcast of President Nelson Mandela's historic final State of the Nation Address to Parliament this Friday.
For the first time, South Africa watchers around the world will be able to enter the nation's home of democracy as President Mandela accounts to the people of South Africa for the achievements and challenges of the first momentous five year term of post-apartheid governance.
GCIS Chief Executive Officer Joel Netshitenzhe said:
"Without the efforts our international friends we would have waited much longer for democracy in South Africa. Many thousands already visit our website daily and we are delighted that they will be also able to share this historic occasion with us. This live broadcast will be the first of many."
Live sound and pictures of President Mandela's State of the Nation Address to Parliament will be broadcast on the Government Communications website at http://www.gov.za from 11.00am-noon on Friday 5 February.
Notes to Editors:
1. South Africa is the ninth largest user of the Internet in the world.
2. The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) was launched on 18 May 1998 as a sarategising and co-ordinating body for government communication.
For further information please contact: Nad Pillay tel: (27 12) 314 2166 nad@gcis.gov.za