Due to an increasing global population, it is becoming increasingly important to incorporate geoscience in our day-to-day lives. This is to ensure human needs are met in a sustainable way which does not compromise the integrity of our environment. 

Expansion of urban centres and development of new habitats will see infrastructure development taking place even in areas previously regarded as geologically unfavourable, which could pose a risk to ecosystems and the environment. The reverse relationship can also be expected, whereby the geological environment could pose a hazard to human safety and wellbeing as well as to the safety of the built structures. Engineering Geology contributes to the infrastructural sustainable development in ensuring a harmonious existence of the natural and the built environment.

Agrogeology on the other hand plays an important role in agriculture and food production, answering to the needs of a growing world population. Understanding the impact of geological processes and materials on agriculture can therefore improve soil productivity in delivering bountiful harvests and nutritious food.

With the advancement in the area of medical geology, it has become a well-known fact that exploitation of previously unused natural resources increases the risk of human exposure to previously sequestered environmental toxins. This field addresses environmental health problems such as trace element deficiencies, exposure to natural dusts, radioactivity, naturally occurring organic compounds in drinking water, and volcanic emissions.

Society should therefore maximise the use of geoscientific knowledge in solving global problems and meeting the needs of a growing population, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.

ST06_S01- Engineering Geology and Geohazards 

Keynote speaker: TBA

Conveners: Israel Hasheela

Africa is characterized by a diverse geological landscape, encompassing a wide range of geological formations and geohazards. The continent's geology includes ancient shield areas, rift systems, volcanic regions, and sedimentary basins. These geological features contribute to various geohazards that pose risks to human populations and infrastructure. One prominent geohazard in Africa is seismic activity, particularly along tectonic plate boundaries and rift systems. The East African Rift System, for example, is known for its frequent earthquakes. Volcanic eruptions are also a significant geohazard, with active volcanoes such as Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Mount Nyiragongo in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, the continent is prone to landslides, especially in hilly or mountainous regions, and flooding in areas with heavy rainfall or proximity to large rivers. These geohazards present challenges for urban planning, infrastructure development, and disaster risk reduction efforts in Africa. Understanding the geology and geohazards of the continent is crucial for mitigating risks, improving preparedness, and ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in the face of natural hazards.

ST06_S02- Agrogeology and Medical Geology 

Conveners:  Giesberta Shaanika and Badumisa Sibolile

Agrogeology and medical geology are two important fields that intersect with the geological aspects of Africa's agriculture and public health. Agrogeology focuses on the study of geological factors that influence soil fertility, nutrient availability, and water resources, all of which play a critical role in agricultural productivity. In Africa, agrogeological studies contribute to understanding soil composition, identifying suitable irrigation practices, and mitigating the impact of soil degradation and erosion. This knowledge helps optimize agricultural practices, enhance crop yields, and promote sustainable farming methods, ultimately addressing food security challenges on the continent. On the other hand, medical geology explores the relationship between geology and human health. In Africa, this field investigates the influence of geology on the occurrence of geological hazards, mineral exposures, and the presence of natural contaminants in water and soil. Medical geology studies aid in identifying areas at risk for diseases related to geogenic factors, such as exposure to toxic elements or pathogens. This knowledge supports public health interventions, including the provision of safe drinking water, prevention of diseases associated with geological hazards, and implementation of appropriate land-use practices. Both agrogeology and medical geology contribute to improving livelihoods and public health outcomes in Africa by harnessing the understanding of geological processes and their implications for agriculture and human well-being.

ST06_S03- GIS and Remote Sensing as Tools of Africa Development 

Conveners: Paulina Pokolo

GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and remote sensing have emerged as powerful tools for the development and management of Africa's resources and infrastructure. GIS enables the collection, storage, analysis, and visualization of geospatial data, providing valuable insights into land use, natural resource management, urban planning, and disaster risk assessment. Remote sensing, on the other hand, involves the acquisition of data from satellite or airborne sensors, allowing for the monitoring and mapping of land cover, vegetation health, water resources, and environmental changes over time. In Africa, GIS and remote sensing have been instrumental in various sectors, including agriculture, forestry, water management, transportation, and public health. These tools aid in decision-making processes, resource allocation, and policy development by providing accurate spatial information and supporting evidence-based approaches. Moreover, GIS and remote sensing have facilitated the identification of vulnerable areas, such as those prone to droughts, floods, or other natural disasters, enabling proactive measures for disaster preparedness and response. By harnessing the power of GIS and remote sensing, Africa is leveraging geospatial data to foster sustainable development, improve resource management, and enhance the well-being of its people

ST06_S04- Information management systems in Earth Sciences

Conveners: TBA

Information management systems in Earth Sciences play a crucial role in Africa, where the continent's vast geological diversity and natural resources require effective data management and utilization. These systems enable the collection, organization, analysis, and dissemination of geospatial data and knowledge specific to Africa's unique geological features. By leveraging advanced technologies and software applications, these systems facilitate data integration, modeling, visualization, and interpretation. They support various aspects of Earth Sciences, including geological mapping, mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, and natural resource management. Information management systems also promote data sharing, collaboration, and capacity building among researchers, government agencies, and industry stakeholders. By effectively harnessing and analyzing geoscientific information, these systems contribute to evidence-based decision-making, sustainable development, and the preservation of Africa's natural heritage.