Beneficiaries of Field Geoscientific Mapping Training Urged to apply the knowledge gained

The commended Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Uganda (MEMD) has commended the European Union for funding the PanafGeo Training in Field Geoscientific Mapping and continued investment in Africa’s geoscientific capacity which demonstrates a shared commitment to sustainable development, responsible resource management, and scientific excellence.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the PanafGeo Training in Field Geoscientific Mapping at K Hotels Entebbe , Grace Tusiime, the Under Secretary of the  Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Uganda said African geoscientists from diverse nations coming together to strengthen their professional competencies, guided by experienced experts, and supported through international partnership will transform institutions and, ultimately, economies.

‘’As the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, we recognize that the foundation of a strong minerals sector lies in robust geoscientific data. Accurate geological mapping is not merely a scientific exercise; it is the bedrock upon which mineral exploration, investment decisions, infrastructure planning, groundwater development, and environmental management are built’’, said Tusiime whp represented Eng. Irene Batebe, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development.

She said the Ministry fully supports initiatives such as PanafGeo that strengthen technical capacity within our Geological Survey Department and across the continent.

‘’High-level policies and strategies can only succeed when backed by competent technical personnel who apply internationally recognized standards in fieldwork, data interpretation, and reporting. This training has enhanced practical field mapping skills, improved harmonization of geological data, and fostered peer-to-peer learning among African geological surveys. It has strengthened the technical confidence of participants and reinforced the importance of standardized methodologies in geological investigations’’. added Tusiime.

She added; ‘’When our geoscientists return to their respective countries, they carry with them not only enhanced technical skills but also networks of collaboration. Geological formations and mineral belts extend across borders. Therefore, cooperation among geological surveys is not optional — it is essential. Harmonized mapping approaches enable regional correlation of geological units, shared understanding of mineral systems, and coordinated resource development strategies.

Uganda remains committed to building and sustaining strong partnerships with geological surveys across Africa and beyond. We value technical cooperation that promotes knowledge exchange, innovation, and long-term institutional strengthening’’.

She encouraged beneficiaries, who also received certificates , to apply the knowledge gained from the training diligently and to maintain the professional networks established during this training.

The ministry reaffirmed dedication to supporting continuous professional development, regional collaboration, and international partnerships that enhance Uganda’s and Africa’s geoscientific capabilities.

Dr. Fred Alex Tugume, Acting Commissioner of DGSM’s Geological Survey Department, said this course has sharpened field-based competencies, reinforced methodological discipline, and enhanced  collective ability to produce high-quality geoscientific data.

He said field geoscientific mapping remains the backbone of geological surveys worldwide.

‘’Accurate lithological identification, structural interpretation, stratigraphic correlation, sampling protocols, and geodata recording are essential for producing reliable geological maps. The skills you have refined here — from systematic field observations to the integration of structural measurements, petrographic interpretation, and digital data capture — are not abstract academic exercises. They are practical tools that directly influence the credibility and usability of national geoscientific datasets’’, said Dr Tugume.

He commeded the outstanding contribution of the Czech Geological Survey whose expertise, professionalism, and commitment to knowledge transfer have been exemplary.