In conjunction with the USGS (its American counterpart), the BRGM has prepared a geological map and two metallogeny maps for Madagascar at 1:1,000,000 scale. These tools are indispensable for Malagasy government authorities and for mining operators to allow them to develop the sector.
1 August 2012
Geologic map of Madagascar

 Geologic map of Madagascar at 1:1,000,000 scale. 

© BRGM 

Madagascar has quite a significant mining potential, but it is still essentially worked using artisanal means. This is why the Malagasy authorities have over the past several years been implementing a massive institutional reform of the sector, materialized by the Program of Governorship of Mineral Resources (PRGM).

It is in this framework that BRGM, jointly with USGS, was entrusted in 2007 under World Bank funding with the preparation of a geological and metallogenic synthesis of Madagascar at 1:1,000,000 scale: that is, three printed maps accompanied by an explanatory sheet memoir (a geological map, a map relative to metallic substances, and a third to industrial minerals), likewise made available in the form of numerical databases within a GIS (geographical information system).

Promoting private investment initiatives

The primary objective was to harmonize the mapped data according to a uniform, integral, modern and ambitious perspective, proposing a new interpretation of the country thanks to new geological and gitological concepts.

To achieve this, the BRGM took into account all available data: earlier knowledge, but also cartographic revision work accomplished starting in 2005 by an international consortium in the framework of a previous World Bank project.

Completed in June 2012, this work will enable the Malagasy government authorities to develop their mining activity to a level that is commensurate with the nation’s geological and mining potential. One of the objectives, in particular, is to promote private investment initiatives, so far few in number.

Ultimately, mining production should represent a significant resource, with a longstanding impact on the country’s social and economic development.

Verifications in the field in Madagascar

Verifications in the field on Precambrian formations in Madagascar. 

© BRGM