The aim of the Department of Mineral Resources (the Department) is to promote and regulate the minerals and mining sector for transformation, growth, development and ensure that all South Africans derive sustainable benefits from the country's mineral wealth. Subsequent to the 2012 State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered by the President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma, on the 09 February 2012, the Minister of Finance, Mr Pravin Gordan, delivered his 2012 Budget Speech on the 22 February 2012. In his speech, the Minister of Finance allocated funds to the priorities identified in the SONA. In line with the afore-mentioned departmental mandate and the policy priorities identified in the SONA and the Budget Speech, the Department has identified the policy priorities for the minerals and mining sector for the 2012/13 financial year.