Accra to Host the 31st Colloquium of African Geology in September 2027

The Geological Society of Africa is pleased to announce that the 31st Colloquium of African Geology (CAG31) will be held in Accra, Ghana, from 19–24 September 2027.

CAG31 will be organised by the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, the Ghana Institute of Geoscientists and the Department of Earth Science, University of Ghana, under the auspices of the Geological Society of Africa. The conference will provide a major continental platform for advancing geoscientific knowledge, strengthening professional partnerships and promoting innovative approaches to Africa’s development challenges.

The theme for the conference is: Sustainable Geoscience for Africa’s Future: Innovation, Resilience and Inclusive Resource Governance

The theme reflects the increasingly important role of the geosciences in addressing Africa’s environmental, social and economic priorities. Across the continent, geoscientists are contributing to the exploration and responsible development of mineral and energy resources, groundwater security, climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, infrastructure development, environmental protection, and sustainable land-use planning.

CAG31 will create opportunities for participants to discuss how geological knowledge, emerging technologies and interdisciplinary research can support Africa’s transition towards more resilient and sustainable economies. Particular attention will be given to innovation in geoscience, responsible resource development, climate and environmental resilience, and governance frameworks that ensure the benefits of Africa’s natural resources are shared equitably.

The colloquium is expected to bring together geoscientists, researchers, university lecturers, students, government agencies, policymakers, mining and energy professionals, environmental practitioners, development organisations and other stakeholders from Africa and the international geoscience community.

The scientific programme will provide a platform for the presentation of new research findings, technical discussions and professional networking. Participants will be able to exchange knowledge on contemporary and emerging areas of geology, including mineral exploration, economic geology, structural geology, geophysics, geochemistry, hydrogeology, engineering geology, environmental geoscience, geohazards, geoscience education and Earth-resource governance.

Beyond its scientific programme, CAG31 will offer participants an opportunity to experience Ghana’s rich culture, hospitality and geoscientific heritage. Accra, located along the Gulf of Guinea, is one of West Africa’s major centres of education, business, culture and innovation. The conference will therefore combine high-level scientific engagement with opportunities for participants to build collaborations and experience Ghana's diverse cultural heritage.

CAG31 is expected to strengthen cooperation among African geoscience institutions and support the development of the next generation of geoscientists. Early-career professionals and students will have opportunities to interact with established researchers, industry leaders and policymakers, develop professional networks and gain greater exposure to current developments within the geosciences.

The conference will also provide an important forum for examining how African countries can improve the governance of geological resources. Discussions will emphasise transparency, environmental responsibility, community participation and the integration of scientific evidence into national and regional development policies.

Further information regarding registration, abstract submission, scientific sessions, exhibitions, field excursions, sponsorship opportunities and accommodation will be announced in due course.

Members of the Geological Society of Africa, partner institutions, geoscience professionals, researchers and students are encouraged to save the date and prepare to participate in this major continental gathering.

Conference dates: 19–24 September 2027

Venue: Accra, Ghana

Conference website: www.cag31gh.org

CAG31 promises to be an important celebration of African geoscience, culture and innovation in the heart of West Africa.