Gambia hosts 18th African Geological Surveys Assembly

The Gambia has commenced the 18th General Assembly of the Organisation of African Geological Surveys (OAGS) at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre. The assembly brings together ministers, geological experts, and technical representatives from across Africa and Europe to discuss the sustainable management of the continent's mineral resources.

During the opening, Gambia’s Minister of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, Nani Juwara, called for a shift away from the export of raw materials toward local mineral processing and manufacturing. He emphasized that African nations must invest in beneficiation, technology transfer, and regional value chains to capture more value from their natural resources, particularly during the global energy transition.

OAGS President Gabriel Data introduced a new strategic plan for 2025–2030 aimed at increasing African control over the mineral value chain. Additionally, officials noted that strengthening geological institutions is critical for providing the scientific data necessary for informed decision-making regarding infrastructure, groundwater, and environmental protection.