Geological Mapping Project Report of Area L (Kabingo) , Igayaza-Isingiro District.

Abstract

This report is a comprehensive compilation of the objectives, methods, findings, interpretations, conclusions, and suggestions for the Igayaza-Isingiro geological mapping exercise and field trip to south-western Uganda. A one-day briefing on staff and student expectations kicked off the mapping project on January 30, 2022, and it was completed on February 8, 2022. To familiarize students with geological mapping techniques, a geological mapping exercise was conducted at Igayaza, Isingiro District, western Uganda, which is located within the Karagwe-Ankolean system of rocks and is the northernmost extension of the Kibaran mobile belt. During the mapping activity, a geologic hammer, a portable GPS, a notebook, and a compass were all employed. Following the fieldwork, the gathered rock samples were sorted and taken to the lab for additional study, such as petrography and thin section analysis. Interpretation and analysis were done on the data collected for the structures along with the laboratory data. The results were collated, and an interpretation was produced of them.

The lithology was composed of shales and thick argillaceous layers, with quartzites predominating in the thin arenaceous formations. While shales were found in valleys between hills and along the flanks of ridges, quartzites were mostly found at the peaks of ridges. Low grade regional metamorphism was evident by the presence of beddings and some indicator minerals like chlorite and muscovite, although other grades of metamorphism also occurred.

Shales and sandstones underwent metamorphosis to become phyllites and quartzites, respectively. The majority of the arenas (wide stadium-like structures) were formed by granitic intrusions, around which contact metamorphism took place. Joints, beddings, faults, and quartz veins are some of the structures in the mapped area that were mapped at various scales. Since no valuable minerals have been found, the region's economic potential is limited. Farming, livestock raising, quarrying, and brickmaking are among the economic activities, though.

After finishing the mapping activity, students led lecturers to the most intriguing locations where they presented their hotspot discoveries and observations.