The purpose of this programme is to play a role in contributing to local economic development. This will be achieved by partnering with local government, participating in government programmes such as the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and other state department initiatives. . The sourcing of goods and services from the local communities will also be promoted. The establishment of viable ecotourism enterprises could contribute to the economic development of the area. As the Protected Environment is made up of numerous landowners all operating individual businesses, the Protected Environment already contributes to the programme through the employment of numerous staff members required to operate these individual farms.