The Council for Geoscience (CGS) and the Ministry of Mines and Geological Resources of the Republic of Gabon have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that establishes a framework for co-operation between the two parties in the fields of geology, mineral resources development and capacity building.
The partnership aims to support Gabon’s sustainable mining development and strengthen geological collaboration between the two countries.
The MoU outlines four key areas of collaboration: the comprehensive review of Gabon’s geological potential; training and capacity building; investment promotion and industry engagement; and broader support for the advancement of Gabon’s mining sector.
Under the agreement, CGS will support the Ministry across a range of projects including geological mapping and resource evaluation, the identification of high-value mineral zones, recommendations to enhance commercialisation and investment readiness, as well as advisory support on strategic mineral development and planning.
Recognising that exploration alone is not sufficient to deliver long-term impact, the MoU further emphasises the development of local expertise through technical training programmes, exchange visits and secondments, joint workshops and seminars, short courses and support to national institutions and mining schools. These initiatives are intended to strengthen Gabon’s geological and mining capabilities while fostering sustainable sector growth.
The agreement also reflects a shared commitment to ongoing knowledge exchange, collaboration on sustainable mining practices, the adoption of new technologies and digital innovations, and the strengthening of regulatory and technical governance frameworks.
These efforts are expected to contribute to increased interest from South African mining companies and investors seeking opportunities within Gabon’s mining sector.
Speaking at the MoU signing at the 2026 Mining Indaba, CGS CEO Mosa Mabuza said: “This partnership represents an important step in strengthening co-operation between African institutions in unlocking the continent’s mineral potential responsibly and sustainably.
“Through this collaboration, the Council for Geoscience will share its technical expertise and experience to support Gabon in developing a mining sector that creates long-term economic value, builds local capacity and attracts meaningful investment.”
The signing of the MoU reinforces the CGS’s ongoing commitment to regional collaboration, knowledge sharing and supporting African countries in advancing responsible mineral development in line with sustainable growth and economic transformation objectives.