Excerpt
The Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) is a pivotal institution under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, dedicated to advancing geoscientific research and providing essential data to support Ghana’s sustainable economic development.
Historical Background
Established in 1913 as the Gold Coast Geological Survey (GGS) during the colonial era, the GGSA’s initial mission was to investigate and delineate mining areas to foster national development. The first office was located at the River Ankobra Junction in Prestea, Western Region, before moving to Saltpond in the Central Region in 1946. In 1962, the organization relocated to Accra, aligning with major policy decisions on mining. The Ghana Geological Survey Authority Act, 2016 (Act 928) transformed the Geological Survey Department into the current Authority, enhancing its mandate and operational capacity.
Constitutional Mandate
The GGSA operates under the Ghana Geological Survey Authority Act, 2016 (Act 928), which mandates the Authority to:
- Conduct systematic geological mapping.
- Assess, monitor, and evaluate geological hazards and risks.
- Collect, manage, and disseminate geoscientific information.
- Promote mineral exploration and exploitation.
- Conduct research pertinent to the nation’s geological resources.
- Advise the government on geology-related matters, including geo-hazards and mineral resource development.
These functions aim to support sustainable economic development in Ghana.
Leadership and Organizational Structure
The GGSA is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the President of Ghana. The Board includes representatives from various governmental and professional bodies, ensuring a comprehensive approach to geoscientific governance. The Director-General leads the Authority, supported by directors overseeing specialized units.
Departments and Units
The GGSA comprises several specialized departments, including:
Geological Mapping:
- Systematic mapping of the country’s geology.
Geophysics:
- Studying the physical properties of the Earth’s subsurface.
Geochemistry:
- Analyzing the chemical composition of geological materials.
Hydrogeology:
- Investigating groundwater resources.
Mineral Exploration:
- Identifying and assessing mineral deposits.
Engineering and Environmental Geology:
- Assessing geological factors affecting engineering works and the environment.
Seismology:
- Monitoring and studying earthquakes and related hazards.
Recruitment and Appointments
Appointments within the GGSA are made by the President of Ghana in accordance with Article 195 of the Constitution. The Authority’s staffing framework is designed to meet its human resource needs, ensuring the recruitment of qualified professionals to carry out its mandate.
Oversight and Partnerships
The GGSA operates under the oversight of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. It collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies, the mineral exploration industry, academic and research institutions, and other geoscience organizations, to enhance its operations and fulfill its mandate.
Operations and Key Functions
The Authority’s core functions include:
- Geological Mapping: Creating detailed maps of Ghana’s geological features.
- Geophysical Surveys: Conducting surveys to understand subsurface conditions.
- Geochemical Analysis: Studying the distribution of chemical elements in rocks and soils.
- Hydrogeological Studies: Assessing groundwater availability and quality.
- Mineral Exploration: Identifying and evaluating new mineral resources.
- Engineering and Environmental Geology: Providing geological insights for construction and environmental management.
- Seismic Monitoring: Operating a national seismic network to monitor earthquakes and related phenomena.
These operations are essential for informed decision-making in resource management, environmental protection, and hazard mitigation.
Historical Reforms
- A significant reform in the GGSA’s history is the enactment of the Ghana Geological Survey Authority Act, 2016 (Act 928), which transformed the Geological Survey Department into an Authority. This change enhanced its mandate and operational capacity, enabling it to better serve Ghana’s developmental needs.
- In November 2023, the GGSA launched its 110th-anniversary celebrations, highlighting its contributions to Ghana’s industrial and socio-economic development. The Authority has outlined a series of events, including public lectures, symposiums, exhibitions, seminars, and an international conference, to commemorate this milestone.
References
- https://ggsa.gov.gh/about-us/
- https://citinewsroom.com/2021/11/10-member-ghana-geological-survey-authority-board-inaugurated/
- https://www.mdf.gov.gh/beneficiaries/ggsa/
- https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/business/Lands-minister-commissions-newly-refurbished-Ghana-Geological-Survey-Authority-office-1957991
- https://gna.org.gh/2023/11/legislative-instrument-will-make-ghana-geological-survey-authority-more-responsive-to-ghanas-industrial-agenda-mireku-duker/
- https://ggsa.gov.gh/website/
- https://mlnr.gov.gh/index.php/geological-survey-department/
- https://www.mdf.gov.gh/beneficiaries/ggsa/
- https://www.devex.com/organizations/ghana-geological-survey-authority-ggsa-237957