The strategic plan is the basis upon which the work of the Department carried out during the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period. The strategic plan draws on the outcomes approach of government, especially outcome 7 that seeks to ensure realization of 'vibrant, equitable, and sustainable rural communities and food security for all' in South Africa. An APP further encapsulates key relevant pronouncements of the Cabinet and the Presidents. The Department, therefore, has crafted its strategic objectives and priorities in a manner that responded to these key policy pronouncements.