CAPE TOWN (miningweekly.com) – An initiative to strengthen geoscientific knowledge and skills in Africa has been launched at the thirty-fifth International Geological Congress (IGC), in Cape Town.

The PanAfGeo initiative is a collaboration between the Organisation of African Geological Surveys (OAGS) and EuroGeoSurveys.

“The increasing global demand for raw materials and a volatile market outlines the need for a successful geoscientific initiative of PanAfGeo’s magnitude,” said EuroGeoSurveys secretary general Luca Demicheli.

The launch follows the completion of the PanAfGeo feasibility study, a first of its kind study to evaluate geoscientific knowledge and skills in African geological surveys. The study spanned two years and covered 25 African countries.

It found several challenges in the industry, with insufficient staff training and a lack of advanced equipment being the main causes of reduced field activities.

The study also indicated that the focus of geological surveys was mainly on mineral resources, while neglecting environmental elements such as natural hazards, groundwater and soils.

“We now know where it is more urgent to act and this is where the PanAfGeo project will operate,” said Demicheli.

He said the geoscientific knowledge and skills offered by the surveys could be translated into a direct economic benefit, while also contributing to the health of countries.

“Essentially, a geologist is the Earth’s doctor. We listen to the Earth. A geologist knows what needs to be done to find and protect groundwater, protect people from landslides, earthquakes or volcanism; and to discover and take advantage of the earth’s resources in a safe and wise manner. Geosciences can really make a difference.”

Demicheli said PanAfGeo would provide African governments with the opportunity for geological collaboration among African countries.

PanAfGeo will focus on policy, governance and communication.

Training will also be key. Training sessions for African geological administrations will focus on remote sensing and geoscientific mapping, mineral resources assessment, the environmental management of mines, artisanal and small-scale mining, geoscience information management, geohazards monitoring and geoheritage valorisation.

“The effectiveness of geological survey organisations in Africa has advanced in leaps and bounds over the past years. However, much still needs to be done. PanAfGeo will specifically address the challenge of supporting the development of the OAGS,” said Demicheli.

Council for Geoscience senior specialist and secretary general of the thirty-fifth IGC Greg Botha, said he fully supported the initiative.

“The industry in Africa is something to get excited about. There is so much potential. The official launch of the PanAfGeo demonstrates what can be achieved when international bodies work together.

“With so many experts from all over the world converging for the IGC, we look forward to seeing the African geosciences industry taken to new heights.”

The week-long IGC is being hosted by South Africa for the first time since 1929 and encompasses a diverse scientific programme, workshops and short courses, field trips and day tours and exhibitions.