Medical Geology in Africa: An Example of a Successful Educational and Research Initiative at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa

The African continent is characterised by a very complex and dynamic geological history and evolution including frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in tectonically active regions. This is in addition to water toxicity due to interaction with the geological environment including rocks and soil as well as air pollution due to dust storms especially in the dry parts of the continent. Furthermore, the continent is known for its mining activities and petroleum exploration, which enhance the release of chemical elements and dust into the environment. Considering the possible health impacts of these natural geo-environmental and anthropogenic materials, factors and processes on humans and animals, it has become necessary and urgent to establish a Medical Geology educational and research programme in Africa in order to address these issues. This programme led by postgraduate students investigates the relationship between pertinent geo-environmental variables and specific public health issues through research-collaborative projects and training of a new generation of researchers in Africa. The programme attracted several postgraduate students from different countries in Africa including South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Namibia and Kenya since it started in 2013. The results of this highly successful training programme have been presented at several international conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.