Geological Survey Department (GSD) is an institution within the Ministry of Mining. It was established in 1922 by Nyasaland Protectorate under the British Colonial Government with the aim of conducting regional geological mapping and exploration of groundwater resources. The groundwater component was delinked to the Ministry responsible for water. The GSD has evolved a lot as currently is a national research centre which does systematic geoscientific investigations that among others, include geohazards assessment which supports the implementation of development plan prevention policies. The Department has its headquarters in Zomba and Regional Offices in Lilongwe and Mzuzu.

Mandate

To collect, assess, disseminate and archive all geoscientific data related to geology and minerals resources of the country.

Vision
To be a dynamic institute of excellence that is innovative, self-motivated, development-oriented and responsive to the clients’ needs for geoscientific development.

Mission Statement
To acquire, monitor, update, archive and disseminate geoscientific information of Malawi in order to foster socio-economic development and contribute to poverty reduction through the utilisation and management of minerals and other geological resources.

Strategic Objective
The department strategic objectives are;

1. Conduct systematic mapping and documentation of the geology of Malawi
2. Carry out mineral exploration to unveil the mineral potential of the country
3. Map and document geological hazards for proper land use planning and instating possible mitigation measures
4. Collect, update, curate and disseminate geoscientific data
5. Provide technical services to artisanal and small-scale miners in prospecting minerals and identification
6. Undertake collaborative geoscientific research with local and international intuition
7. Provide technical and advisory services to the general public, other government intuition and the private sector on geoscientific matters.