By William Madouk
South Sudan government plans a comprehensive mineral mapping to assess the nation’s natural wealth and pinpoint resource locations.
Mining Minister Martin Gama Abucha announced the initiative at the reception for the new Undersecretary Dr. Matiok Santino Akuei.
He stated that detailed geological studies will provide a vital understanding of South Sudan’s unique mineral resources.
“In the morning, I had to go to the Ministry of Finance because one of the most important works of this ministry is a geological survey, we must map our resources,” he said.
“So that we may understand what we have, what quantities we have, and where they are. So that is one of the things we hope to do. It will entail a geological survey of the country,” he added.
Abucha also announced that the last touches are being put in place to officially operate a seismological centre in Rajaf payam of Central Equatoria state.
The National Seismological Center will be a laboratory with a seismic hazard microzone that detects every quake, and tremble, and tracks the earth’s heartbeat.
He cited that in a short time, South Sudan will be able to monitor its own earthquake rather than relying on outside sources.
“We talked about building the geological, there’s actually the seismological centre which is already underway – I believe it should only take a few months,” he said.
“We should be able to monitor our earthquake rather than relying on outside sources. We should be able to track it from here. So, this is a really big achievement,” he added.
Mr. Abucha cited that there will be South Sudan Geological Survey authority, which will absorb some graduates.
He hinted at the formation of the South Sudan Mining Company Corporation.
According to him, the authority will absorb geoscientist graduates.
Meanwhile, the mining authority will be in charge of the inspectors, inspecting firms operating in the mining sector to abide by rules and regulations.