The Department of Economic Development and Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) form part of the Eastern Cape Provincial Government and is mandated to spearhead growth and development of provincial economy and is committed to improving the lives of all its citizens. The policy priorities are derived from the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP), Provincial Industrial Strategy, and other high impact policy and linkages to initiatives such as Accelerated Skills Growth Initiative of South Africa - Eastern Cape and Provincial Job Summit Resolutions. These policy priorities serve as the key drivers in transforming the province's socio-economic agenda.

The mission of the Northern Cape Department of Environment and Nature Conservation is to conserve and protect the natural environment for the benefit, enjoyment and welfare of present and future generations by integrating sustainable utilisation with socio-economic development. The Department's strategic-orientated goals are: environmental quality and biodiversity management; socio-economic benefits and employment creation; cooperative governance and administration; environmental education; research; and compliance and enforcement.

Strategic objectives* to protect, conserve and enhance our environment, natural and heritage assets and resources.* Proactively plan, manage and prevent pollution and environmental degradation to ensure a sustainable and healthy environment.* Provide leadership on climate change adaptation and mitigation.* Contribute to sustainable development, livelihood, green and inclusive economic growth through facilitating skills development and employment creation* contribute to a better Africa and a better world by advancing national environmental interests through a global sustainable development agenda.