The Department of Rural Development and Land Reform, formerly known as the Department of Land Affairs, is one of the national departments established after the 2009 national elections. Its mandate was extended to ensure implementation of Outcome 7 of the Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF); which seeks to ensure the creation of vibrant, equitable and sustainable rural communities and ensuring sustainable food security. Outcome 7 constitutes the basis on which the performance of the department is measured.