As from 1999 the Geological Society of Namibia started awarding the Henno Martin Medal to an earth scientist or group of earth scientists who/that has made a significant contribution to improving the understanding of the geology of Namibia. The word geology in this sense is broad and includes academic work, discovery of a significant oil or gas field or ore body (such discoveries generally involve more than one person, hence the consideration of a group of earth scientists where the discovery was the result of a team effort) or advances in our understanding of Namibian hydrogeology.
In recognition of the fact that the important contributions to advances in our understanding of Namibian geology are made by both Namibian residents and visiting, non-resident geoscientists either carrying out research in Namibia or whose guidance has led to important economic discoveries, it was decided that both residents and non-residents could be deserving of the medal. The award is therefore made in one year (starting in 1999) to an individual earth scientist or group resident in Namibia and then in the following year to a non-resident or to a resident. Thus, non-resident earth scientists or groups are considered for the award only every alternate year whereas residents can be considered each year.
Nominations are thus invited every year, specifying either candidates resident in Namibia or candidates both non-resident and resident. The invitation must include the criteria on which the award of the medal is based.
Candidates do not need to be members of the Geological Society of Namibia.
Only members of the Geological Society of Namibia in good standing may nominate candidates for the HM Medal. No nominations may be accepted from any other source other than from the members of the Geological Society of Namibia.
The full CV of the candidate must accompany a nomination. A complete motivation as to why the candidate should be awarded the medal and to how the candidate has contributed towards the understanding of geology in Namibia must also be provided. These documents should be submitted in an electronic format. It is quite feasible that several deserving individuals could be nominated at the same time. Since the medal is awarded only to one person or group, nominations and motivations for the remaining deserving candidates can be held over for reconsideration in future years.
