The role of African geological surveys in local and global development

African geological surveys are playing an important role in local and global development. Core functions are mapping, mineral exploration, geophysics, geochemistry, research, and geoengineering. Regulatory functions, geohazards, training, environment, water resources, and land-use planning are also addressed by some. Most African geological surveys were founded to assist in the search for mineral resources, but they have had to adapt to a much wider field of responsibilities in more recent times. Examples from the Geological Survey of Namibia are given. Faced with challenges of funding and skills shortage, African geological surveys have united under the auspices of the Organization of African Geological Surveys in order to jointly resolve the difficulties experienced.