Geothermal exploration training course by GDC for geologists from Uganda and Tanzania
A new geothermal exploration training course has been kicked off by the Africa Geothermal Centre of Excellence by GDC in Kenya for geologists from Tanzania and Uganda.
The Geothermal Development Cooperation (GDC) is training 12 geologists from Uganda and Tanzania on collection of geosciences data and information in a move aimed at unlocking the continent’s unexploited green energy and natural resources valued at billions of shillings, as reported by Kenya News.
Acting head of Geothermal Centre of Excellence (GCE), Dr. Robert Ogutu said the trainees are drawn from University of Dar es Salaam Geology Department and Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mining.
Speaking in Nakuru when he officially inaugurated the Training Programme, Dr. Ogutu stated that proper geological expertise is essential for scientific investigation, managing geological hazards, land use evaluation and classification, civil engineering projects, formulating government resource policy and efficient exploitation of natural resources.
“I urge the trainees to make use of available resources to improve their technical skills and competencies. The programme will incorporate both classroom and practical sessions,” he said.
Other Key topics to be covered include geothermal systems and global occurrence, development, tools for geothermal resource mapping (geoscientific information), overview of geophysical methods used in geothermal exploration and geothermal mapping using ground temperature measurements & Temperature Gradient Holes (TGH).
Dr. Emmanuel Owden Kazimoto from University of Dar es Salaam said the training will also focuses on strengthening the mechanism for gathering, disseminating and archiving critical geological data required by investors and policy makers.
“We have high expectations as we learn from the best within the region in geothermal matters. We will also be exploring ways in which Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC) can benchmark its operations with GDC,” Kazimoto said.
Source: Kenya News