By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Kingdom of Eswatini is making vast strides in harnessing the latest technology to modernize its mineral inventory, a move that is expected to boost both Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and local investor interest in the mining sector.
This was said by the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy, Prince Lonkhokhela, during the official opening of the 16th Organisation of African Geological Surveys (OAGS) Annual General Assembly.
In his address, the Minister highlighted the implementation of an airborne electromagnetic, radiometric, and magnetic survey, where he emphasized that reliable geological information is crucial for driving economic growth.
He pointed out that Eswatini’s push to update its mineral data is aligned with the broader goal of economic recovery, with mining being identified as a key pillar for the nation’s economic strategy.
The Minister expressed hope that with a strong geological community, Eswatini could achieve the ambitious target of a 10% contribution to GDP through mining.
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“I would like to take this opportunity to inform this meeting that His Majesty, the Ingwenyama, the 11th Parliament, and this 12th Parliament as well as Cabinet identified Mining as one major pillar for Economic Recovery Strategy in which our aim is to reach at least 10% contribution to GDP through the mines.
Without a vibrant and sound Geological community this would remain a dream,” stated the Minister.
Prince Lonkhokhela also took the opportunity to welcome the international delegates attending the assembly, urging them to enjoy Eswatini’s unique culture and natural beauty.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration among African nations in the field of Earth Sciences, noting that the continent’s vast natural resources should be better utilized to benefit African economies.
He called for increased support for Geological Surveys, including financial backing, capacity building, and technology transfer, stressing the need for partnerships like the PanAfGeo training initiative, which enhances skills development across borders.
“The improved support of Geological Surveys in driving the economy cannot be overemphasized. Geological Surveys need financial support, capacity building, technology transfer entities;
hence the PanAfGeo training provided that the partnership of the EuroGeoSurveys and the Organisation of African Geological Surveys (EGS-OAGS) is highly appreciated and encouraged,” said the Minister.
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“The training must mature to technical skills sharing to see development of transboundary project where neighboring countries share skills on similar projects.
This would go a long way to alleviate the apparent gap seen in skills complement for the smaller Geological Survey Organizations.”
The Minister concluded his remarks by expressing gratitude to the Eswatini Government, the Geology Department, and all sponsors for making the event possible.
He encouraged visitors to explore Eswatini’s attractions, where he expressed the nation’s commitment to showcasing its natural and cultural wealth.
The Organization of African Geological Surveys (OAGS) established in 2007, with the aim to jointly address African geological survey issues of common interest;
Promote the contribution of geosciences to African affairs; Assist African decision-makers to obtain technical advice from the members of the OAGS and Provide a geoscience network between the Geological Surveys.
The mandate of the Organisation of African Geological Surveys (OAGS) is to strengthen and sustain geoscience programmes and excellence on the African continent in the quest for socio-economic development and poverty alleviation,
with special reference to mineral resource assessment, sustainable land use and development, natural hazard mitigation and environmental protection.
