Combined Methods of Remote Sensing and Fieldwork in Geological and Mineral Exploration in the Mballe Locality, Adamawa Region of Cameroon

Abstract

Much of Cameroon’s sub-surface wealth is still to be discovered and valorised. In the quest to step up the exploration of these non-renewable natural resources, many techniques are being developed amongst which we have Remote sensing. To boost mineral exploration in Cameroon, this study applied Remote sensing techniques in the Mballe area in order to establish the geological and mineral wealth on thematic maps. This exploration was characterised by the treatment of Landsat satellite 8 image s coupled with intensive fieldwork. With each phase having a specific objective, results of the two activities were compiled for analysis. It was found out that of the eight rock samples collected from the field (amphibole gneiss, quartzite, schist, gneiss, granite, granodiorite, syenite and laterite), they were mainly of metamorphic and plutonic origins. These rocks project to the surface in different forms and the local population uses them in different ways. Their fractures constitute the main paths through which the hydrographic network follows. The treated satellite image showed that gold concentrated in areas where clay and laterite are found especially in the south of the Mballe area. Furthermore, fieldwork also proved that this mineral concentrated at river meanders and confluences. Such a study can be applied in any locality of the country in order to boost mineral exploitation that will contribute to the GDP as the government has embarked on attaining an emerging nation by 2035.