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Why geology profession key in harnessing country’s natural resources

Mr Vincent Edward

TANZANIA continues to be one of the biggest mining success stories in Africa endowed with geology which is highly prospective fossil fuels, precious metals, gemstones, industrial and base metals.

Geologists play a fundamental role in the study of ore deposits which includes the study of ore genesis and the processes within the earth’s crust that form and concentrate ore minerals into economically viable quantities.

A geologist working with PanAfrican Energy Tanzania, Vincent Edward says educating young people about the diverse career opportunities offered by geology will be key to sustaining the industry and supporting the transition within the workforce as career opportunities evolve.

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It is thus important to educate and inform youth who are considering what to study at university but also those who are even younger than that who are extremely passionate about geology.

Mr Edward has an opportunity to explain various issues regarding the geology profession and its economic importance to the country’s economy in an interview with DAILY NEWS Reporter as excerpts below:

How long have you been working with PanAfrican Energy Tanzania (PAET)?

I have been working with this company for six years. I joined PAET in May 2017 as a geologist after graduating with a Master’s Degree in Petroleum Geology from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. I previously worked in the mining industry before pursuing further studies.

What is your role here?

As a geologist, my main roles and responsibilities at PAET are preparing the geological data and creating static geological models which are used as input parameters in reservoir simulation for the company’s field development planning and I also prepare subsurface geological and surface network maps to guide various activities within the company.

Meanwhile, I am involved in planning and identifying potential locations for new wells to be drilled, as well as the development of all geological pre-drilling documentation including data acquisition proposals to provide support to the Operations Team on various tasks such as the management of any sand production well workovers or refurbishment and drilling projects.

In addition, I have broadened my range of duties by getting involved in operational tasks like creating and compiling monthly gas production reports.

When did you start working in this position?

Soon after joining PAET, I started working in this position as a geologist. While the role has been the same, the sphere of my duties has been evolving and expanding. This pushes me to learn every day to cope with the changing demands of my role.

Why did you become interested in geology and what is your advice to youth aspiring to the profession?

Geology is a fascinating study of the Earth, with something new to learn and discover every day. I wanted to understand how hydrocarbons, minerals and water are formed and stored in the Earth. Growing up I have always been curious about exploring various things. I believe my passion for nature also translated into my interest in geology.

Geology looks at some of the most important issues in society today including energy sources and sustainability, climate change, the impacts of developments on the environment, water management, mineral resources and natural hazards.

It is fundamental to educating young people about the diverse career opportunities offered by geology will be key to sustaining the industry and supporting the transition within the workforce as career opportunities evolve.

It is thus important to educate and inform youth who are considering what to study at university but also those who are even younger than that who are extremely passionate about geology.

What aspects of geology and your job interest you the most and why?

Geology extends far beyond the world’s wonders. The field has exciting applications in our daily lives as well, from the gemstones in jewellery to the materials we use to build houses to finding the energy that powers our world and much more.  What is more interesting is also the ability to explore the unseen; it almost makes me feel like a magician.

The aspect of geology that interests me most is structural geology: this is an aspect of geology that deals with the form, arrangement, and internal structure of rocks.

I am also interested in interpreting seismic images, which include the structures resulting from the Earth’s dynamics. This helps to build a big picture and better understanding of those dynamics. Building a structure model of the Earth is also one of the most interesting tasks in my job.

What role do you think PAET plays in people’s lives?

PAET plays a pivotal role in people’s lives, ranging from its employees, the young generation (students) and the community as a whole.  This can be seen as follows:

Foremost, the gas that PAET produces is used to fuel a significant percentage of Tanzania’s power generation in a clean, dependable and more affordable way, while also used to sustain many industries in Dar es Salaam.  As a result, their products are often higher quality and more affordable.

Every day Tanzanians use many of the products born of PAET’s gas production, from cutlery to cooking, and from soda to soap.  In many ways, PAET’s work is invisible to the consumer, but without it, life in Tanzania would be very different, and potentially much harder.

Alongside gas production, the company is an excellent employer that truly cares for its staff and their families, ensuring a safe working environment while sustaining them and their families financially.

The company is focused on skills development and provides growth opportunities for its employees through deliberate investment in training, and we support Tanzania’s young generation by providing internship opportunities, sponsorship for various events, technical support, exposure etc., as they prepare to become future experts.

PAET also plays a positive role in the community by providing good health facilities, classrooms and clean water around the company’s operational facilities.

Last but not least, I believe PAET is a good taxpayer with a major role in supporting the government as it strives to make the lives of all Tanzanians better.

Has PAET been helpful in your personal and professional development? How has it helped?

Yes. PAET has been instrumental in the growth of both my personal and professional life.

PAET has given me exposure to international training and experiences that have advanced my knowledge and helped me acquire new skills. The company has the tools to enable me to become a better version of myself every day and I also have an opportunity to work closely with international consultants on various projects, specifically the 3D seismic project that I was involved from the design phase, tender management, and execution phases.  Moreover, the company has built my professional capability and confidence, preparing me to manage and lead future projects in my area of expertise.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends. I like preparing BBQs at home and inviting people over and I love traveling and exploring the world, especially with my wife and family.

I also enjoy nature, swimming and watching television, especially football and watching my favourite channel; Nat-Geo Wild. I spend time meditating which is a special way for me to connect with my creator.