The Department of Water Affairs is the custodian of South Africa's water resources. The Department is primarily responsible for the formulation and implementation of policy governing this sector, and also has an overriding responsibility for water services provided by local government. While striving to ensure that all South Africans gain access to clean water and safe sanitation, the water sector also promotes effective and efficient water resources management to ensure sustainable economic and social development. The work of the Department is supported by the following entities: