Call for abstracts: Unlocking Sustainable Development in Africa with UNESCO and Earth Science

The International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP) stands as a driving force in promoting sustainable development and preserving our invaluable geological heritage. Through its two-pillars, the IGGP plays a vital role in fostering the harmonious relationship between humans and the Earth. Since 1972, UNESCO has harnessed the intellectual capacity of a worldwide network of geoscientists to lay the foundation for our planet’s future through its International Geoscience Programme. In addition, UNESCO Global Geoparks play a vital role in managing and safeguarding natural landscapes through a comprehensive approach. Research on geological heritage serves as a crucial tool in implementing this holistic approach, promoting the sustainable development of local communitie. To support this initiative and UNESCO's Priority Africa, the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme Secretariat invites past and present IGCP project leaders from Africa, as well as scientists working on geoheritage to join the 29th Colloquium of African Geology (CAG29), in Windhoek, Namibia.

We invite the submission of abstracts related to Geoheritage, Geotourism and Geoparks, as well as the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP) that encompass any of the following scientific themes and participate in the relevant sessions.

• The African geological record, palaeontology, ancient environments and palaeo-climate
• Geodynamic evolution of the African continent: Geochronology, mobile belts, and intraplate magmatism
• Ore deposit geology of Africa (mineral resources and ore forming processes)
• Geophysics and geochemistry - peering into the subsurface and integrated approaches in geosciences 
• Hydrogeology and water sustainability under a changing climate 
• Geology in the service of society: Agrogeology, medical geology, engineering geology and geohazards 
• Geoparks, geotourism and geo-ethics for promoting Earth heritage 
• Geoscience education for sustainable development 

Eligible candidates will receive a sponsorship from UNESCO for their participation in relevant conference.