3.1. The Minister of Finance, in his budget speech, made reference to the significance and prioritization of rural development which would require more spending and coordination. Subsequently, the budget for 2010/2011 allocated an additional R860 million allocated in order to "improving the quality of life within rural communities and broadening the base of agricultural production." Additionally, special allocation of R1.2 billion for rural household infrastructure grant to support rural communities especially for on-site water and sanitation infrastructure was made available for the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). The committee noted that this amount is located in the Department of Human Settlement as the role for provision of water and sanitation has been shifted to the Department of Human Settlement. The committee further believes that for a better service to rural communities, an improved coordination of government services is vitally important. 2. A total of R6, 769, 555 has been allocated for the 2010/11 financial year. The allocation shows an increase from R6.4 billion allocated in 2009/10. The allocation for rural development and land reform accounts for only 1.47% of the total government appropriation by vote (before direct charges).