The Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) has appealed to the government to provide sufficient resources to enable the Authority to carry out its duties effectively and establish itself as a world-class geoscientific centre.
Mr Isaac Kuuwan Mwinbelle, the Director-General of GGSA, emphasized that inadequate budgetary allocations, issues of remuneration, and office infrastructure were hindering the Authority's efforts in fulfilling its mandate.
During a media engagement held in Kumasi, he highlighted that the Authority was intensifying its efforts to protect the country's natural resources and raise public awareness about natural disaster preparedness and management to mitigate the risks and impact of such disasters.
The purpose of the meeting was to brief the media on the Authority's mandate, aiming to enhance understanding among practitioners and seek their support in educating and sensitizing the public about the roles and responsibilities of the Authority.
Mr Mwinbelle explained that the GGSA's core functions include advising the state on geo-scientific matters, geo-hazards, and land use planning.
Additionally, the Authority serves as a national repository for geo-scientific information generated by both public and private entities, such as mining and mineral exploration companies.
Furthermore, the GGSA provides guidance on the construction of roads and railways and is involved in the approval process for building permits.
The GGSA conducts ground and air-borne surveys, collects samples, and carries out necessary investigations to prepare relevant reports that contribute to national development.
According to Mr Mwinbelle, approximately 60 per cent of the country has been geologically mapped, with the southeastern part of the country being prone to earthquakes.
He added that efforts are underway to complete the mapping of the remaining 40 per cent.
He called on the media to support the Authority in its mission to raise public awareness about disaster risk factors, thereby reducing actions that could lead to disasters in the country.