BULLETIN NO~.

THE FEDERAL DE.OCRATIC REPUBLIC OF PHIOPIA

MINISTRY OF DINES AND ENERdY

ETHIOPIAN INSTITUTE O~ GEOLOGICAL SURVEYS

EXPLANATION OF THE

GEOLOGICAL MAP OF ETHIOPIA

Scale 1:2,000,000
2.. edition

Complied by

..n,..h. T.t.r., Tadlwos Chernet and Worklneh Haro

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Septemiler, 199.
-1 ----
 - -- - - - -- - -

Published by EIGS
Technical publications Team, 1999

;.
 I. fNTRODUCTION

The first 1:2,000,000 scale GElological Map of Ethiopia with an explanatory note
was compiled by V. Kazmin and published in 1972 by the Ethiopian Institute of
Geological Surveys. The map together with 'other regional compilation works (e.g.
DaneUl, 1943; Mohr, 1963; Merla et aI., 1973) has served Its purpose by providing a
broad overview of the country's geology.

Our knowledge of the geology of Ethiopia when the first edition was complied
was however at Its infancy. Although there still remains a lot of geological research to
be done in the country, a considerable amount of new geologic information has
accumulated in particular in parts of tl1e Great East African Rift valley in Ethiopia, and
in the western and southern parts of the country in the I~st two decades. This
accumulated data has inevitably led to the compilation of the present 2ndedition of the
Geological Map of Ethiopia at the same 1:2,000,000 scale. An attempt to give a
balanced emphasis to mappable geolc>gicspace-time units both as a geochronometric,
genetic and/or paragenetic units have enabled to take this compilation a step ahead
from its predecessors. The main sources of information used for the compilation of the
map are listed beside the geological map (pocket).

The geological units in Ethiopia fall into one of the following three major
categories; the Precambrian Basement, Late Paleozoic to Early Tertiary sediments and
the. Cenozoic volcanic and associated
.
sedimentary rocks. The task of compiling of the
2nded.itiongeological map and the acccmpanying brief explanatory note was entrusted
to a team consisting of three geologists. Mengesha Tefera was incharge of the task of
compilation of the map, and report on the Precambrian basement and overall
coordination and final a$.semblyof the map with the accompanying explanatory .note.
Workineh Haro. was responsible for the compilation of the map and note on the
. Late
Paleozoic to Early Tertiary glacial and marine sediments.. The responsibility of
preparing the map and Dote on the Cenozoic volcanic and the associated sedimentary
units and1he final editing of the explanatory note was given to Tadiwos Chernet.

---
 I, INTRODUCTION

The first 1:2,000,000 scale Geological Map of Ethiopia with an explanatory note
was compiled by V. Kazmin and published in 1972 by the Ethiopian Institute of
Geological Surveys. The map tooether with 'other regional compilation works (e.g.
Danelll, 1943; Mohr, 1963; Merla 19taI., 1973) has served its purpose by providing a
broad overview of the country's gecllogy.

Our knowledge of the geology of Ethiopia when the first edition was compiled
was however at its infancy. Although there still remains a lot of geological research to
be done in the country, a considerable amount of new geologic information has
accumulated in particular in parts of the Great East African Rift valley in Ethiopia, and
in the western and southern parts of the country in the I~st two decades. This
accumulated data has.inevitably led to the compilation of the present 2ndedition of the
Geological Map of Ethiopia at tho same 1:2,000,000 scale. An attempt to give a
balanced emphasis to mappable gelologicspace-time units both as a geochronometric,
genetic and/or paragenetic units h,ave enabled to take this compilation a step ahead
from its predecessors. The main sources of information used for the compilation of the
map are listed beside the geological map (pocket).

The geological units in Ethiopia fall into one of the following three major
categories; the Precambrian Basement, Late Paleozoic to Early Tertiary sediments and
the. Cenozoic volcanic and associated
.
sedimentary rocks. The task of compiling of the
2nded.itiongeological map and the accompanying brief explanatory note was entrusted
to a team consisting of three geolo'lists. Mengesha Tefera was incharge of the task of
compilation of the map. and report on the Precambrian basement and overall
coordination and final a$.semblyof the map with the accompanying explanatory note.

Workineh Haro was responsible for the compilation of the map and note on t~e Late
Paleozoic to Early Tertiary glacial and marine sediments.. The responsibility. of
preparing the map and note on the Cenozoic volcanic and the associated sedimentary
units and1he final editing of the explanatory note was given to Tadiwos Chemet.

- -~
 - --- - - --

II. SUMMARY.OF GEOLOGY AND R~EGIONALSETTING

Ethiopia can be divided into four major physiographic regions widely known as
the western plateau, southeastern plateau, thE~ Main Ethiopian Rift and Afar
Depression. The Ethiopian plateau is underlain at depth by Precambrian rocks of the
Afro-Arabian Shield. The Precambrian basement is covered for the most part by glacial
and marine sediments of Permian to Paleogene period and Tertiary volcanic rocks with
related sediments. The Cenozoic volcanic succe:>sionis split apart by parts of the
Great East African Rift. System in EthioPia (Le. The Afar Depression, Main Ethiopian
Rift and related rifts).

Precambrian basement exposures are found in areas not intensively affected by

Cenozoic volcanism and rifting and where the Phanerozoic cover rocks have been
eroded away. Precambrian rocks outcrop in four major regions around the plateau
margins. These areas are in Tigray region in tho north; along the Sudan border in
Gojam, Wollega, lIIubabor and Kefa regions in the west, in Sidamo and Bale regions in
the south and in Harerghe region in the east (Fig. 1). Two major Itthotectonic
assemblages have been recognized in the Precambrian basement in Ethiopia similar to
those recog"nized in the neighboring countries of northeast Africa and Arabian
Peninsula. These are blocks of gneissic terra1es and metamorphosed volcano-
sedimentary belts associated with minor ultramafic bodies and intrusives ranging from
mafic to granitic in composition (Fig. 2).

The blocks of gneissic terranes which are considered to be generally older than
the v~lcano-sedimentary belts they commonly enclose, consist of high grade
heterogeneous orthogneisses and paragneisses, at upper amphibolite to granulite
facies metamorphism. Metamorphic facies in the low grade volcano-sedimentary
succession, however, typically ranges from greenschist to lower amphibolite facies.
The most conspicuous foliation trend is north-south with deviations to northeast and
northwest. These trends are characteristics of both the loWgrade volcano-sedimentary
succession and the high grade rocks. The boundaries between the gneissic and
volcano-sedimentary sequences are typi~lIy of tec;tonicorigin.

I
2
Sheared, mylonitized and highly tectonically deformed rocks occur particularly along
the contacts between the gneissic and the low grade volcano-sedimentary belts.

The Precambrian shield.ir Ethiopia ~ccupies a unique position in this part of the
African continent situated between the predominantly gneissic rocks of the
Mozambique Belt, to the south in eastern and southern Africa, and the volcano-
sedimentary-plutonic complexes along a strike to the north bordering the Red Sea
(Eritrea and Sudan, Fig. 2). The Mozambique Belt (Holmes, 1951) has been
recognized as a polycyclic complex comprising units of highly varying lithology,
metamorphic grade and age (Almond, 1984; Cahen et al. 1984). It contains gneisses
of at least Early Proterozoic and possibly Archean age, but most of the isotopic dates
reflect. the Late Proterozoic to Early Paleozoic ("Pan-African") tectono-thermal events
(Almond, 1984; Black, 1989). Loggo and Almond,(1984) however have authenticated
the Archaean age of at least SO'lle of the high grade gneisses (Archean gneisses of
northern Uganda). Recent studil3s have also shown that the Red Sea region consists
of at"least five northerly trending
..
volcano-sedimentary belts, largely separated by strips
that contain ophiolitic rocks. These are now generally accepted to be accreted arc
complexes of Pan-African age (ca. 1000-450 Ma) with intervening remnants of
dismembered oceanic crust (StoE!sseret aI., 1985; Vail, 1983 & 1985). Within Ettliopia,
the Precambrian basement contains elements that resemble both of the above
terranes.

The Precambrian contains a wide variety of sedimentary, volcanic and imrusive

rocks which have been metamorphosed to varying degrees. The tract of land along the
Ethio-Sudan border in the west is underlain by gneisses and migmatites known as Baro
Group (ARb). It is flanked on the east by a large tract of land underlain by the relatively
low grade volcano-sedimentary succession known as Birbir (PR2b), Tulu Dimtu
(PR2td), Tsaliet (PR2), Tambien (PR2t) Groups and Didikama (PR2d) and Shiraro
Formations (PR2s) and assoGiated plutonic rocks. The volcano-sedimentary
successions are bordered by a tE!rraneof predominantly gneissic rocks and migmatites
to the ea&t. In the southern part of the country another volcano-sedimentary belt

-- - - - ---
 - - - -- - - ---
-

(Adola Group PR2a) with its attendant intrusives occurs enclosed by gneissic terranes
of Early Proterozoic to Archaean age (ARk, AR1, ARa, ARy, PR1w and PR1r (see
geological map in pocket).

Early or pre-tectonic plutonic bodies (gb, dt, tn, gd, gt, and gt2) are internally
foliated and concordant with their host rocks. There are, however, equidimensional
and discordant intrusions (gt3 and gt4) of Late Proterozoic to Early Paleozoic age.
These intrusives mark the end of tectonic activity in Late Proterozoic to Early Paleozoic
and are known as post or late tectonic intrusions. Intrusions of alkaline magmas (alkali
granites and syenites; gt5) of Tertiary age are relatHd to the early phases of rifting in
the Afar are also remarkable.

Most of the known economic ore deposits such as auriferous quartz veins,
volcanogenic sulfide mineralizations are associated with the low grade volcano-
sedimentary assemblages. The distinction of this Jnit from the high grade gneissic
terrane is of paramount importance in the search for mineral deposits. Base-metal and
auriferous quartz vein mineralizations, characteristic of the volcano-sedimentary
complexes-are absent in the high grade terrane.

Following the Proterozoic to Early Paleozok:: tectonic and magmatic activity,

. peneplanation of the metamorphicbasement tool< place until Carboniferous and
Permian (Kazmin 1972). Late Paleozoic to Early Me'sozoic sediments such as Enticho
Sand.stone, Edaga Arbi Glacials in northern Ethiopia (Dow et aI., 1971), Permian
Sandstones in western and southern Ethiopia (Davidson, 1983), Waju Sandstone in
eastern Ethiopia (Kazmin, 1972 & 1975) and Gum Sandstone in southern Ethiopia
(Belay, 1978) accumulated- in shallow basins and narrow channels cut in the
Precambrian basement. Paleozoic continental sediments are also wide spread in
Tigray, Harar regions and in the Abay River Gorge (~~azmin,1972 & 1975).

Two major transgression-regression cycles took place during the Mesozoic era
(Kazmin 1972). The first transgression started in the Early Jurassic or Late Triassic
from the Ogaden region in the Southeast towards northwest and reached its maximum
extent in Kimmeridgian. During this time Adigrat Formation (Ja) consisting mainly of

6
sandstone and minor lenses of silt~;tone;Hamanilei Formation (Jh) consisting mainly of
limestone and dolomite; Abay Formation (Jb) consisting of limestone, sandstone,
gypsum and shale; Urandab and Antalo Formation (Ju and Jt) consisting mainly of
fossilferous limestones were deposited. The transgressive sea appears to have
reached as far west as 36°E 10ngitLde.

The regression of the sea started towards the end of Jurassic depositing
lagoonal facies of the Agula Formation (Jag), which consists of black shale, marl and
claystone with beds of limestone, ~ypsum and dolomite in the Mekele area in northern
Ethiopia. The Gabredare Formation (Jg1 and Jg2) consisting of limestone and marl
marks the upper most part of thE! Jurassic sedimentary succession in the Ogaden
region, in eastern E~hiopia.

The lowermost Cretaceous is represented by the Korahe Formation (Kg1 Cind

Kg2) consisting of alternating limestone, marl, shale and dolomite in the Ogaden region
and marks the end of the first regression event. The second major transgression event
took place in Aptian to Turonian dE!positingMustahil Formation (Km), Ferfer Formation
(Kf) and Belet Uen Formation (Kb) which consist of alternating limestones, shales,
marls, dolomite and anhydrite. In the Late Cretaceous the second regression event
took place depositing continental sediments predominantly composed of interbedded
shale, siltstone and sandstone of the Amaba Aradom Formation (Ka).

A third and less extensive transgressive event took place in Late Cretaceous
until Middle to Late Eocene depositing Jessoma Formation (Pj) consisting mai,nlyof
sandstone; Taleh Formation (Pt) consisting mainly of anhydrite, and Karkar Formation
(Pk) consisting qf limestone interbedded with shale and gypsum in the eastern extreme
corner of the Ogaden region. The Mesozoic sedimentary sequence contains many
prospective areas for hydrocarbon exploration. Exploration done in the-Ogaden region
during the last few decades has defined a gas field at Calub.

Following the Late Mesozoic-Early Tertiary transgression of the sea from the
south-east an epierogenic uplift of Afro-Arabia (East Africa together with Arabian
Peninsula and the intervening regions now occupied by the Red sea and Gulf of Aden)

--
 ----

occurred on an immense scale. According to Mohr (1962) the magnitude of the uplift
was such that nowhere in the world outside the orogEmicbelts have basement rocks
been uplifted to such an elevation as that associated with the East African swell. The
cause of the major uplift is related to a mantle plume!whose decompression melting
generated enormous quantities of basaltic magma in th,alithosphere and resulted in the
formation of a classic continental flood basalt province. The upraised and uparched
crust fissuring under tension permitted the ascension of voluminous basaltic magma
(estimated as 300,000 km3, Mohr, ~983) to form the Trc~pSeries of Ethiopia.

The first significant volcanic activity occurred in the Late Mesozoic along the
margins of the Proto-Afar. Alkaline and tholeiitic basalts are found interbedded with
Cretaceous regressive sandstones along the southern and western margins of the Afar
Depression, Kulibi and Sakota areas on the southeastern and northwestern plateau
re'spectively (Gouin and Mohr 1964; Merla et aI., 197'3)., Available geochronological
data strongly suggests that it was not until Late Eocene or Early Oligocene that basaltic
volcanism was widespread. These early flood basalts shown on the map as Ashangi
Basalts (P2a), Jima Volcanics (Pjb & Pjr), Aibe Basa ts (P3a), Arsi and Bale Basalts
(pNab), Makonnen Basalts (P~mb), Alajae Formation (PNa), Tarmaber Gussa and
Tarmaber.Megezez Formations (PNtb & Ntb) now cover extensive areas of the western
and southeastern plateaus.

Several pulses of volcanic activity which were always related to or preceded by

major tectonic movements, were identified (Zc~mettinet aI., 1974; Kazmin, 1979).
Earlier volcanic events (prior to 20 Ma) are correlated in time to rifting in the Red Sea
and the Gulf ot Aden. A migration of the earlier volcanic activity from an area centered
at the present .Afar Depression due south, east and W3Stwas inferred from the spatial
distribution of the early flood basalts (Kazmin, 19751 and referencescited therein).
Subsequently the volcanic zone appeared to have a northeasterly trend with its axis
\

running parallel to and west of the pre~ent Ethiopian Rift. The flood basalt volcanism
culminated by the formation of alkaline ba$altic_shield volcanoes some of which rise

8
 ab,Ove 4000 m a.s.1. on both the western and southeastern plateau (ct. Tarmaber
Formation).

Superimposed on the long uplifted swell of Afro-Arabia, whose axis

approximately runs north-south, parts of the Great East African Rift System started to
develop in the Miocene. Rifting began from the presently oceanic Red Sea and Gulf of
Aden Rifts which join with the younger and continental Main Ethiopian Rift (MER) at the
complex proto-oceanic Afar triple junction (Afar Depression). The MER which is an
important segment of the contimmtal East African Rift dies out or bifurcates further
south into the Lake Turkana and Lake Stifane Rifts and the Reireba proto-rift south of
Lake Chamo:

According to Kazmin et al. (1980), initial sagging of the MER started about 15
Ma and was followed by major episodes of rifting at 10, 5, 4 and 1.8 to 1.6 Ma. Each
stage of rifting and downfaulting was accompanied by a bimodal (felsic-mafic)
volcanism in the rift and formation of basaltic and trachytic shield volcanoes on the rift
shoulder and margins. The gE!neral consensus is that downfaulting of the Afar
Depression started at a much E!arlier age and that rifting was accompanied by a
voluminous flood basalt volcanisITI. Some workers consider initial phases of stretching
started as early as in the Early Miocene (Barberi et aI., 1975) and the opening of the
depression was preceded by alkaline granite intrusions (gt5) along its margins and was
followed by the deposition of detrital sediments shown on the map as the Danakil
Group (Nrs).

Following} the. initiation of subsidence of the Afar Depression .and the MER;
subsequent volcanism was restricted at first to the evolving rifts and then to the axial
zones which later became a focus of Quaternary and recent volcanic activity. The East
African Rift System in Ethiopia comprises the elements of the following major structural
and physiographic features of the region.

1. The Gulf of Aden Rift which affects Ethiopia in that faults of this system form the
southern boundary of the Afar Depression and determined the trend of regional

~--- - --
 - -- - - - --

lineaments such as the Addis Ababa - Ambo - Nekemte lineament on the

north\Aiesternplateau.
2. The Red Sea Rift; faulting of which forms the northern Eritrean coast and the
Danakil Horst which separates the Red Sea and the Afar Depression and the
western escarpment of the ~far Depression with faulting of the same trend
extending as far south as the Marda Faults on the southeastern plateau.
3. The Afar Depression where the three important rift s}'stems, i.e., the Main Ethiopian
Rift, the Red Sea Rift and the Gulf of Aden Rifts intersect.
4. The Main Ethiopian Rift running NNE from Lake Chamo to about the latitude of
Addis Ababa where the rift starts to funnel out into thl~Afar Depression.

5. The Lake Turkan~, Lake Chew Bahir Rifts and Heireba proto-rifts in southern
Ethiopia which are not directly connected but progressively displaced to the east
due north.

In the course of the development of parts of the Great East African Rift System
in Ethiopia, a variety of continental sedimentary basins were developed since Miocene.
In the Afar Depression, sediments originating from the rapid erosion of the steep
escarpm~nts together with abundant volcanic products tended to fill the depression but
tectonic deepening was more rapid than vo~cano-sedimentaryinfilling. Moreover, the
nature of the ~sedimentswas dependent on whether the basins are marginal or axial.
Evaporite beds have also been formed during the re:stricted marine invasion of the
northern Afar Depression (Danakil Depression). Plio-Pleistocene fluvo-Iacustrine
sediments are also widespread in the Ethiop'ian. Rifts. In the MER, lacustrine"
sedimentation is wide spread during the pluvial periods of the Quaternary. The present
Rift Valley Lakes are therefore remnants of larger ancestral lakes, which covered most
parts of the developing rift floor.

Besides their use in the preparation of construction material, the Cenozoic

volcanic and sedimentary cover in Ethiopia have many economic significance.
Offshore occurrences of fossil fuel have been reported in the Tertiary sediments of the
Red Sea. Evaporite deposits containing important resorves of halite, sylvite, carnallite

10
 --

and other salts occur in the Danakil Depression related to a marine evaporite sequence
of Late Tertiary to Quaternary age. Economic reserves of diatomite are found
associated to Pleistocene lacustrine sediments in the central part of MER. There are
reported bentonite occurrences in central and southern Afar associated with a Plio-
Pleistocene lacustrine sediment~;in the region. Lignite seams have been reported from
many of the intertrappean fluvo-Iacustrine sediments. located on the northwestern
plateau.

Deep exploration drilling has proved the existence of a geothermal reservoir

related to the Quaternary volcanicity that can economically supply steam for power
generation at the Aluto-Langeno Geothermal Field in the central MER. Detailed
investigation of other prospects in the northern MER and southern and central Afar
Depression has been under way for the last few. decades where indications of more
economically attractive geothermal resources exist. Surface manifestations of the
hydrothermal systems have encouraged ecotourism by.way of hot spring resorts and
nature reserves in parts in the rift valley and mountains of the Ethiopi-anplateau. The
Ethiopian flood basalt province, the continental rifts, Afar Depression and the related
sedimentary basins hold great pror'lises to provide answers to many research problems
of the geoscientific community. Moreover the fauna and flora supported by one of the
largest tracts of scenic volcanic lardscapes of the world will remain_ofgreat interest to
many disciplines other than the earth sciences for a long time to come~~

11

----------- - --- --- --

 - --- -- - - ---

III. THE PRECAMBRIAN BASEMENT

1. THE ARCHAEAN COMPLEX

1.1 Introduction

The gneisses of the Archean complex have been grouped into the following five major
units.

1. Konso Group (ARk) which consists of a relativHly mafic rich hornblende gneiss,
amphibolite and a mafic rich granulite.

2. Alghe Group (AR1) consisting of dominantly gray biotite-hornblende gneiss and

granulite of variable color, in part containing ill d9fined masses of relatively uniform
orthogneiss of granodioritic, tonalitic and dioritic compositions.

3. Awata Group (ARa) which comprises well layer~d gneiss and granulite containing
clearly recognizable metasedimentary components.

4. Yabello Group (ARy) made of pale pink to light gray quartzo-feldspathic gneiss and
granulite, generally leucocratic and having a granitic composition.

5. Baro Group (ARb) consisting of ortho and paragneisses and migmatite,

metamorphosed to upper amphibolite facies.

In Ethiopia, the Archean age of these gneisses has not been proven; however,
their metamorphic grade and other field evidence allowed correlation to other Archean
rocks in the African continent. Metamorphic facil3s in the gneissic terranes is mainly
. middle to upper amphibolite facies, but has attained granulite facies m~tamorphism in
many places.

In southwestern Ethiopia the high grade tErrane, characterized by the presence

of hypersthene bearing rOckslie east of Omo Rivor, and is centered in two areas, in the
Hamar range and around Konso (Davidson, 1983). Considerable amount of
retrogression has taken place, reducing many rocks that once had granulite facies
assemblages to middle and Iqwer amphibolite facies and even locally to greenschist
r
facies. Retrogression has been far from completl3,allowing relicts of hypersthene tobe

12
preserved in many rocks and accounting for the occurrence of in close proximity, for
example, of two-pyroxene hornblende granulite and epidote green hornblende
amphibolite. In many rocks partial retrogression is witnessed by the growth of lower
grade minerals in and around mirerals such as hypersthene. Green amphibole rims
are very common around both 11yperstheneand augite grains. At some places
retrogressive amphibolite facies zones are common within granulite facies rocks.
These localized retrogressions are particularly associated with restricted zones of
ductile shear zones.

1.2 Konso Group (ARk)

The Konso Group (ARk), formerly named as the Konso Gneiss (Kazmin, 1972 &
1975), is comprised of dark gneisses rich in hornblende and poor or lacking quartz.
These rocks occur in southern part of the country in the Konso and Hamar regions
(Kazmin, 1975; Davidson, 1983). They underlie a large area starting from the Segen
River north to the southern side of the Gidole highlands and reappear from beneath the
Tertiary volcanic cover west of Lake Chamo. Similar gneisses occupy several strips in
the area between Omo and Segen rivers, in particular close to Lake Turkana.

The dominantly mafic rich gneiss unit in areas of amphibolite facies

metamorphism is composed primarily of plagioclase' (andesine) and green hornblende
with subordinate biotite, quartz and magnetite. Sphene and epidote are present at
many localities; augite and rarely garnet are present in areas close to the granulite
facies zones. In areas of granulitf:!facies, the mafic rocks contain hypersthene as well.
as augite; and garnet occurs with both pyroxenes in the Konso region, and more
sparingly in the central part of the Hamar granulite facies zone. Hornblende is a
common associate of the pyroxene bearing granulities and is generally brown or olive
in color rather than green. Plagioclase usually shows mildly antiperthitic texture.

Biotite appears to be a stable phase in some rocks, but is secondary in others. Sphene I
and epidote are not stable phases. I

13

-- --
 -- -- --- --

Amphibole and/or less mafic hornblende gneiss are interlayered in various ratios
and at different scale within most of this unit. Paragneisses including aluminous types,
calc-silicate gneiss and marble, are locally present as thin layers, particularly in the
area north of Fejej (Lat. 4° 35' N and Long. 36° 20' E). In other areas notably just
northwest of Chew Bahir, due north of Minogelti and southwest of Turmi, relatively
uniform masses of dark hornblende gneiss likely represent deformed and
metamorphosed gabbroic to quartz dioritic plutonic rocl<s.

Elsewhere, layering is either relatively continuoJs or broken up where agmatitic

migmatite has formed. Structures of undoubted primary sedimentary or volcanic origins
were no where observed. General compositional considerations, however, suggest
that a package of mafic to intermediate volcanic rocks with a minor sedimentary
component and containing relatively mafic intrusiv(~ bodies form the most likely
progenitor of this unit.

1.3 Alohe Group (AR1)

The Alghe Group (AR1) former Alghe Gneiss of Kazmin (1972 & 1975) consists
of a rather uniform, gray, coarse grained gneisses. These rocks occur west of the
Negele meridian and east of the Awata valley where they were originally mapped as
Alghe Gneiss (Kazmin, 1978). Similar rock types have been mapped in the eastern
.
(Berhe 1978), western (Gore, Gimbi, Nekemte and Abu Ramla areas) and in the
southern (Hamar region) parts of the country (Amenti in preparation, Mengesha, 1990;
Mengesha and Berhe, 1989; Davidson, 1983).

The Alghe Group consists of gray gneiss with variable color index showing
development of layering. Much of this unit is relatively uniform and poorly layered
orthogneiss, representing deformed and metamorphosed plutonic rocks of dioritic,
quartz dioritic and tonalitic composition. In places this ';lr:aygneiss is moderately to well
layered and contains subordinate, narrow, interlayered units of mafic, quartzo-
feldspathic and metasedimentary gneisses.

14
 The gray gneisses in areas of amphibolite facies are composed of andesine,
quartz, biotite and/or hornblendE~. The dark gray gneisses have similar mineral
assemblage to those of the mafic granulite of Konso Group (ARk). Biotite and
hornblende are the dominant mafic minerals that impart a dark color and garnet,
epidote and augite are also present locally in small amount. Color index ranges
between 10 and 20, and the rocks are overall distinctly less mafic than those of Konso
Group gneisses (ARk). Migmatitic phases are common, with mobilizate both as
irregular quartzo-feldspathic segrE!gationparallel to the foliation and layering with cross
cutting veins and dykes of pegmatitic character. In extreme examples of this process,
the rock has become essentially i';;Jneousin appearance. In the Hamar region the gray
gneisses attain granulite facies rretamorphism and are darker (greenish gray) in color
where fresh, and distinctly more nranular in texture. Sillimanite-garnet gneisses occur
along Gaba River north of Metu. A narrow belt of gneiss containing muscovite,
staurolite and abundant garnet is also found along the western border of the Alghe
Group (AR1) but muscovite is ram in the high grade terranes.

1.4 Awata Group lARa)

The Awata Group (ARa) originally identified in Sidamo region and named as
Awata Gneiss (Kazmin, 1975) consists qf well layered gneiss and granulite of
metasedimentary origin and occur mainly west of Negele and in the Hamar region
(Kaz'11in,1972 & 1975, Davidson. 1983). The group is characterized by well developed
layering and by the presence of tl,ick, and red-brown weathering zones.

The gneisses and granulites contain significant amounts of interlayered biotite

gneiss with or without garnet, and include other metasedimentary types such as pelitic
gneiss with muscovite and/or sillimanite an~ garnet, calc-sili~te gneiss with diopside,
grossularite and scapolite, both calcite and dolomite marbles, impure quartz gneiss and
quartz-rich feldspathic gneiss. In addition, many of the quartz-rich and biotite gneisses
carry graphite and pyrite or' phyrhotite. The anhydrous layered pelitic granulite
contains hyperst~ene or sillirranite and garnet. A notable proportion of dark
hornblende gneiss and amphibolite also occur in this unit. The dark bands and

15

- - - - --- -- - - - - -
-- - - - -

hornblende gneiss may represent original clayey sediments and the amphibolites may
represent basic intrusions (Qavidson, 1983).

The pelitic gneisses of this unit contain muscovite in a restricted region in the
western Hamar plains approaching middle ~mphibollte facies. There and elsewhere
biotite and garnet are the main mafic minerals, locally accompanied by sillimanite;
kayanite is rare, and andalusite, staurolite and corc;lie!ritewere not observed. Marbles
and calc-silicate gneisses at low grade contain tremolite, bl,Jtcloser to the granulite
zone of the Hamar range, they contain diop~id~Jgrossularite and scapolite, and only
rarely amphibole. Deformation and metamorphism h~ve been so intense that all
evidence of former sedimentary structures have been obliterated; this unit of diverse
paragneiss with large aerial extent indicates a moderate to shallow marine deposition
in a relatively.stable tectonic regime (Davidsqn, 1983).

1.5 Yabello Group (ARy)

The Yabello Group was originally recognized in the Yabello area of Sidamo
region and was named as Yabello Gneiss ~nd is characterized by the presence of
discontinuous layers of rather massive qu~rtzo-feldspathic rocks which merge into
grani~icgneisses (Kazmin,.1972). Mapping rarri~d in the Omo River area (Qavidson,
1983) showed that similar quartzo-feldspathic gneiss and granulite underlie 'Iarge tracts
of ground between Jinka and the north end of th~ Hamar range, between Beto and the
northern part,of the Chew Bahir rift and on th~ southern side of Mt. Gugu. The first two
lie in broad, northwest oriented strips, separated by gray gneiss of the Alghe Group
(AR1) east of Jinka, but converge in the vicini~yof Lake Weyto (Lat. 5° 25' N and Long.
36° 58' E). The third is separated from the r~st by tracts of units of Konso and Alghe
Groups that occupy tt-learea west of Lake Ch~mo.
1
Like the Alghe Group, the rocks of the Yabello Group vary from being relatively
uniform orthogneiss to well-layered gneiss, and probably contain rocks of both plutonic
and supracrustal origins. They are characteri~ed by their light gray, pink, buff or cream
colors and by low color indices. In the areas around Jinka, Beto and Balta, pink and
light gray quartzo-feldspathic gneisses are foliaJed, biotite-bearing and commonly

16
migmatitic with stromatitic form and pegmatitic leucosomes richer in K-feldspar. To the
Southeast, these rocks merge along strike with more granular leucocratic gneisses in
which magnetite is the dominant mafic mineral along with scattered garnet and rare
biotite in some rocks. This char:'lgecoincides with the elevation to granulite facies as
indicated by the appearance of hypersthene in the rock units, and is accompanied by
change in color to buff and cream hues.

Quartzo-feldspathic granUlites.exposed around Lake Weyto tend to be slabby or

blocky on outcrops, having layering that is due to less compositional differences than to
layered variation in grain size. Many of these rocks have lenticles or rods of quartz
among sugary, equant feldspars, giving a texture that is typical of a classic leucocratic
granulite (Ieptite). The sugary quartzo-feldspathic granulites are usually anhydrous;
the place of biotite has been taken by magnetite and garnet, rarely hypersthene, with
additional K-feldspar.and mesopl3rthiteis common irt these rocks.

1.6 Baro Group (ARb)

Baro Group (ARb), originally referred to as the Baro Domain (Mengesha and
Berhe, 1980; TekleWolde an'ti Moore, 1989) consists primarily of ortho and
paragneisses metamorphosed to upper amphibolite facies. The group underlies a
large tract of land at the extreme western part of the country (Mengesha et aI., 1990;
Teklewolde et aI., 1989; Davidson, 1983). The southern end of the group has been cut
by northwesterly trending sinistral shear zone (Davidson, 1983).

The Baro Group (ARb) consists of predominantly uniform and layered quartzo-
feldspathic gneisses. Most of the area west of Bonga village consists of layered and
relatively uniform, lenticular gneisses. The predominant rock types are strongly
foliated, light gray to pink, medium grained biotite and hornblende-bi.otite gneisses.
Minor ferruginous quartZite and amphibolite layers occur within hornblende-biotite
gneisses.

17

-----
 --- --- -

The gneisses typically consist of sodic plagioclase, microcline, quartz, biotite

and hornblende, I<?callywith traces of muscovite and garnet; in most cases the color

i~dex ranges between 5 and 15%: Some of the gneisses are migmatitic cut by
numerous subconcordant lenses of granitic and pegJratitic material. Discordant dykes
and pods of pegmatite and granite also occur, and some bear garnet. A uniform
granitoid composition with a lenticular structure over hundreds of square meters of
outcrop area suggests that the majority of these gneisses are tonalitic or granodioritic
orthogneisses. The more well layered, garnet-bearing varieties are, however, most
probably paragneisses.

Although biotite and hornblende-biotite gneisses are the dominant rock types in
the Baro Group (ARb), the group also contains laYHrs of garnet-amphibole, garnet-
sillimanite, and calc-silicate vaieties. The gneisses from west and south of Bonga (Lat.
8° 10' N and Long. 34° 9' E) contain layers of coarse, mafic-rich plagioclase-garnet-
hornblende and garnet-gedrite gneisses that locally predominate to form garnet-
amphibole gneiss. Deep red porphyroblasts of garnet reach 5 cm in diameters and
constitute up to 40% of the rock which makes it a potential source of abrasive material.
Interlayered aluminous gneisses and biotite-quartz-felclspargneiss are subordinate.

Paragneisses dominate the succession along the eastern side of the Baro
Group, north and south of the Baro River. The garnet-sillimanite gneiss unit underlies
the area immediately east of Bonga village. It consis~sof interlayered aluminous and
calc-silicate gneisses with subordinate garnet amphibole varieties and magnetite-
bearing quartzite. The main exposures occur near Bonga and consist of up to tens of
meters thick of sillimanite and/or garnet-bearing biotite-microcline-quartz-plagioclase
gneiss layers associated with gray to pink biotite gneisses and schists.

The sillimanite-bearing rocks commonly contain knots (a few centimeters in

diameters) of intergrown sillimanite, quartz and plagioclase with large garnet
porphyroblasts (locally up to 5 cm in diameters) and constitute as much as 60% of the
rock and are intergrown with quartz, biotite, and sillimanite. Cordierite-orthoamphibole

18
 (gedrite)-bearing rocks are locally interlayered with the sillimanite-garnet-biotite
gneisses.

East of Bonga, along the eastern boundary of the Baro Group within the
sillimanite gneiss unit, is a well-exposed section of calc-silicate gneiss. Similar
sections occur west of Bonga, north and south of Baro River, within both biotite and
hornblende-biotite gneisses. The rocks is fine to medium grained, green-gray, weakly
foliated and commonly layered on a centimeters scale. Mineral assemblages in these
rocks include garnet-epidote-hornblende-diopside, garnet-epidote-microcline-biotite
and biotite-plagioclase-hornblendl~, with epidote rich layers centimeters-scale clusters
of brown titanite grains and rare calcite.

A narrow belt of muscovite-bearing gneiss and schist also occurs along the
eastern border of the Baro Group biotite gneiss. This probably represents a retrograde
metamorphism due to shearing and may be equivalent to the biotite gneiss. A similar
rock, containing'staurolite and abundant garnet, is also found along the western border
-
of Alghe Group (AR1).

2. EARLY PROTEROZOIC ROCKS

2.1 Introduction

Rocks of possibly Early or Middle Proterozoic age, Wadera Group (PR1w) and
Mormora Group (PR1r) have be,en identified in Sidamo and Hararghe regions and
possiblyoccur in the westernpart of the country(Kazmin,1972;Berhe, ~ 987). A more
detailed study (Kozyrev et aI., 1B85) however didn't agree to the distinction between
the Wadera ~md Mormora Groups (Middle Complex of Kazmin, 1972) and referred to
them as a Mormora Group. The unit(s) are represented by psammitic and pelitic
metasediments with a characteristics northeasterly, northerly or northwesterly opening
sometimes asymmetric folds. Migmatization has developed sporadically, and yet
primary sedimentary features are well preserved. Abrupt changes in metamorphic
grade and style of dislocation indicate a major unconformity between these rocks and
the underlying gneissic complex (Kazmin 1972 & 1975). Similar rocks which were
deposited unconformably on the Archaean basement in Early or Middle Proterozoic

19

- - - - --- -
- - -- - - - ~--

times have been reported from northeastern Africa but are metamorphosed and
deformed with the underlying gneisses (Almond, 1984).

2.2 Wadera Group (PR1w)

Rocks of this group, originally named after thEIvillage of Wadera, are typically
developed near Zembaba village, and have so far been recognized only in Sidamo
region (Kazmin, 1972). In later studies of regional geology and prospecting in the Adola
gold field, these rocks have been referred to as Zembaba Formation (Kozyrev et aI.,
1985). The Wadera Group consists of several hundred meters thick of chiefly yellowish
I brownish or dark gray, fine grained feldspathic sandstone containing thin beds of
quartzite, biotite and biotite-muscovite schists, muscovite and biotite gneisses and
amphibolites. The metasandstones are composed mainly of potash feldspar, quartz,
and plagioclase.

In contrast to the gneissic complex described before primary sedimentary

features including cross bedding are well preserved. The Wadera Group has been
metamorphosed and migmatized to a lesser degree than the gneissic complexes.
These sharp changes in metamorphism and structural style have been considered to
indicate a major unconformity between the gneissic complex, i.e. the Lower Complex,
and the Wadera Group (Kazmin 1972; 1975). The former has been regarded as older
basement of possibly Archaean age, the latter as a.cover of unknown age.

In the course of field mapping within the Negeie Map sheet (NB 37-11) in 1991
by a team consisting of Amenti Abraham and Wolc:iegebriel Genzebu, the Wadera
rocks were re-examined. The team concluded that thE~Wadera rocks do not represent
low grade metasediments, (Amenti, personal communication), but are mylonites and
ultramylonites formed in a large N-S running shear zones and that the reported
(Kazmin 1972; 1975) fine layering, cross bedding etc. are not primary sedimentary
structures, but are formed due tv shearing.

.
20
2.3 Mormora Group (ffi1d
The Mormora Group is represented by several thousands of meters of thick
psammitic and pelitic assemblages (biotite gneisses, graphitic and micaceous schists
and marbles) with frequent devE!lopmentof kyanite, staurolite and garnet (Kozyrev et
al. 1985, Kazmin, 1972). There is little or no migmatization in the Mormora Group. The
Mormora Group has been divided into Zembaba (present and former Wadera Group),
Aflata and Kenticha Formations during regional mapping and prospecting carried out in
the Adola gold fields (Kozyrev at aI., 1985). The rocks of the Aflata Formation are in a
conformable relationship with the underlying quartz-feldspathic gneisses
(metasandstones) of the Zembaba Formation (Wadera Group in the present and former
works).

The Aflata Formation consists predominantly of biotite gneisses containing

closely spaced beds and interbeds of amphibolites, biotite-amphibole gneisses and
schists. The base of the succession contains quartzo-feldspathic gneisses. The upper
part of the sequence is rich in mica schists and kyanite-muscovite-quartz schists locally
thin discontinuous beds and interbeds of graphitic and graphite-biotite schists and
marbles and calc-silicate gneisses are found. The biotite gneisses are composed
mainly of biotite, quartz and feldspars (oligoclase, orthoclase and microcline). A
complete section of the formation crops out along the Awata River.

3. LATE PROTEROZOIC ROCKS

3.1 Introduction

The upper Proterozoic contains a very thick succession of north-south trending

volcano-sedimentary ~uccessions of Pan-African age enclosed by high grade gneisses
mentioned earlier (Kazmin, 1972 & 1978; Kazmin et aI., 1987; Davidson, 1983;
Mengesha 1990; Teklewolde et aI., 1989; Kozyrev et aI., 1985; Garland, 1980). These
rocks crop out in three major parts of the country in western, northern and southern
Ethiopia (fig. 1). They are tightly folded, metamorphosed to greenschists to lower
amphibolite facies and contain recognizable volcanic and sedimentary units, many of
which are highly sheared, intruded by diverse suite of plutons of mafic, intermediate

21

-- ------- ------
 - - - - -- - -- ---

and granitic compositions. They contain rock assemblages of typical of ophiolitic

association (Kazmin, 1978; Kazmin et aI., 1979; de Wit and Senbeto, 1979; Vail, 1983;
Berhe, 1989). Narrow discontinuous belts of ultramafIc rocks, gabbros, serpentinites,
rare sheeted dykes, pillowed tholeiitic basalts and associated turbidites, ch-ert and
marble have been described
\

The lower parts of the complex are- well developed in Sidamo and Wollega
regions (Kazmin, 1972; Kazmin.et aI., 1978). The Late Proterozoic Birbir (PR2b) and
Tulu Dimtu (PR2td) Groups crop out in Wollega and extend through Gojam into
northern Ethiopia. They form the youngest Precambrian basement units in northern
Ethiopia, where they are referred to as Tsaliet Group (PR21), Tambien Group (PR2t)
(Beyth, 1971), Didikama Formation (PR2d) and Shiraro Formation (PR2s) (Kazmin,
1975, Garland, 1980).

These I~w grade volcano-sedimentary assemblages, together with the ophiolites

and their attendant intrusives are widespread in the Afro-Arabian Shield (Fig. 2). It is
now widely accepted that most of these terranes of Pan-African age developed as
island arc-ocean basin complexes, since 1 Ga. Because of their relatively narrow
lin~ar nature, the ophiolitic betts are considered to represent convergent boundaries or
suture zones between continental and island.arc terranes (Gass, 1979; de Wit and
Senbeto, 1981; Vail, 1983; Stosser and Camp, 1985; Kroner, 1985).

The Late Proterozoic rocks in Ethiopia from the oldest to the youngest have
tentatively been divided into the following units on the map. These are the Adola
Group (PR2a) Kajimiti beds (PR2k), Birbir Group (PR2b), Tulu Dimtu Group (PR2td),
Tsaliet Group (PR21), Tambien Group (PR2t), Didikama Formation (PR2d), Shiraro
Formation (PR2s) and as an undifferentiated Proterozoic rocks (PR2).

3.2 Adola Group (PR2a)

This group is typically developed in Adola area in Sidamo region (Kazmin, 1972
& 1975; Kozyrev et aI., 1985). It consists of an assemblage of basic and ultrabasic
rocks, amphbolites of intrusive and volcanic origin with beds of chlorite and graphitic
phyllites and schists, ferrigeneous and graphitic quartzites, metasandstones and

22
 metasiltstones. The interfaces between the Mormora and Adola Groups are straddled
by the occurrence of ultramafic bodies. Similar rock types have been recorded south of
Negele where they are associated with mainly metavolcanic rocks (Tilahun, 1983).

In the Adola Gold Field tlie group has been subdivided into Chakata and
Fenkelcha Formations (Kozyrev et aI., 1985) which show a conformable relationship.
The lower part, Chakata Formation, consists of volcano-terrigenous sequence
(greenshist, amphibolite, graphite schist and phyllite, ferruginous and graphitic
quartzite). The upper part, Fenkelcha Formation, consists predominantly of terrigenous
rocks (phyllite, metasiltstone and metasandstone). Unlike the Chakata Formation, the
Fenkelcha Formation is essentially terrigenous and consists mainly of phyllites,
metasiltstones and metasandstones. The rocks of the Fenkelcha Formation often
exhibit well defined sedimentary structures such as rhythmic bedding, lenticular and
cross-bedding and intraformational breccias.

3.3 Kaiimiti Beds (PR2k)

Several hundred meters thick of two parallel belts of metaconglomer~te and

metasandstone lying unconformably on the Adola Group (PR2a) occur south of
Shakiso and Kebremengist near Haidima settlement (Kazmin, 1972 & 1975; Kozyrev et
aI., 1985). The metaconglomerate consist of well rounded pebbles and boulders of
quartz, amphibolites, gabbros, gneisses, granite, quartzite, metasandstone and schists.
The metasandstone is gray with greenish shade, with massive and cross-bedding and
is generally horizontal. It consists of coarse quartz and feldspar with biotite, muscovite,
epidote, opaque mineral, quartz, feldspar and amphibole making up the cement.

3.4 Birbir Group (PR2b)

The tract of land stretching from around Surma area (Long. 35°15' E and Lat.
6°00' N) due north up to Chanka village is underlain by a conspicuous group of low-
grade, predominantly greenschist facies rocks in contrast to the adjacent high-grade
gneisses of Baro Group (ARb) and Alghe Group (ARI). These volcano-sedimentary
assemblages reappear in the area north of Asosa (UN, 1972; Metal Mining Agency of

23

- -- -- -- - - - - - -- -
 - - - - - - - - --- - - - -

Japan, 1972; Davidson, 1983; Mengesha and Seife Michael, 1990; Mengesha, 1990;
TekleWolde.etaI., 1989). The group is named afterthe Birbir River,majortributaryof
Baro River in western Ethiopia. Further north, the group merges with similar
rocks in Sudan, Uffat Group .(Vail et aI., 1986). The Birbir Group includes rocks of the
Akobo (Davidson, 1983) and Birbir Domains (Teklewold et aI., 1989; Mengesha et aI.,
1990).

The Birbir Group (PR2b) lies between the high grade gneissic terrane of Baro
Group (ARb) in the West and Alghe Group (ARI) in the East. In the north, the group is
separated from the high grade terrane of Alghe Group by the Tulu Dimtu-Dalati-Yubdo
ophiolitic suture zone (Kazmin 1973; Kazmin et aI., 1979) referred in this work as Tulu
Dimtu Group (PR2td). The belt narrows towards soutr and finally around Surma area
rocks of Baro and Alghe Groups merge, where they are all truncated by the northwest
trending Surma shear zone (Davidson, 1983). The contact between the Birbir Group
and the high grade gneisses is of a tectonic nature and marked by mylonites and the
change in metamorphic grade is also abrupt (Mengesha, 1990; TekleWo:de et aI.,
1989; Vail et aI., 1986; Davidson,
.. 1983).

The predominant units are mafic schists and phyllites of basaltic and andesitic
composition with some rhyolites and subordinate volcanoclastic rocks and thin
metasedimentary units. The mafic rocks are dark gray, dark green
hornblende/actinolite-plagioclase schists, greenschists and amphibolites. The
metasedimentary units are biotite-muscovite-quartz and graphitic schists,
conglomerate, ironstones, quartzite, marble, phyllitl~ and sandstone. Primary
sedimentary and volcanic features are locally preserved.

There are abundant intrusive bodies of mafic, intermediate and granitic

composition and discontinuous ultramafic bodies. Presence of auriferous quartz veins
with box-work sulfide (pyrite) mineralization and placer gold within the Birbir Group
(PR2b) are of particular significance. Metamorphk: facies typically varies from
greens'chist to lower amphibolite facies. The succession is faulted and folded into a

24
 series of tight to isoclinal folds. All these rocks have undergone intense mylonitization
(Vail et aI., 1986; Tekle Wolde et aI., 1989; Davidson, 1983).

The Tulu Dimtu Group (PR2td) is named after the Tulu Dimtu ultramafic body
(Mt. Dimtu) east of Nejo in Wollega region. Thi$ group is composed of a thick
succession of low grade metavolcanic and metasedimentary unit, 'abundant intrusive
bodies of mafic, intermediate and granitic composition and discontinuous but
conspicuouS'ultramafic bodies of probably ophiolitic association (Kazmin, 1978; Kazmin
et aI., 1979; Mengesha'and Beme, 1990; Amenti tn preparation). The rocks form a
relatively narrow belt along the western part of the country and has been named as the
Tulu Dimtu-Dalati-Yubdo ophiolite suture zone. Primary volcanic and sedimentary
features are locally preserved and all the rock types have suffered intense
mylonitization..

The ltulu Dimtu Group forms a belt that extends due north for about 100 km from
south of Yubdo town and disappears under the volcanic succession of the northwestern
Ethiopian plateau. In the northern part of the country these rocks merge with the
volcanic sedimentary assemblages of the Tsaliet Group (Kazmin, 1972- & 1978;
'Garland, 1980; Arkin et aI., 1971). To the South the belt apparently terminates against
the gneistes of Alghe Group (AR1), where it separates the Blrbir Group from the Alghe
Group. The contact between the Tulu Dimtu and the Birbir Groups (PR2b) is not
certain but that of the Birbir and Alghe Groups extends straight north.

The mafic and intermediate metavolcanics of basaltic and andesitic

compositions form units several hundreds of meters thick. The mafic metavolcanics
(greenstones) are usually dark greenish gray rocks, fine grained, massive looking with
well developed $ystems of joints. They consist of pale green amphibole, chlorite,
epidote and sericite which has completely replaced some primary minerals. Most of the
metavolcanics of this unit contains considerable amount of pyrite. The metasediments
include sandstone, mudstone, graphitic schist, quartzite, marble, conglomerate, quartz-
muscovite
/' schist and phyllite.

25

- - - - -- -- --- --
 - - - - - - - - -- - - - - --- -

3.6 Isalim GrouD(~R21)

A considerable part of northemEthiopia is underlain by more than 1500 meters

.thick lo~-grade belt which is presumably younger than the low-grade belts in southern
and western Ethiopia. This extensive low-grade unit is referred to as Tsaliet Group
after the Tsaliet River in Tigray region (Beyth, 1971, Kazmin, 1972 & 1975; Garland,
1980). The group is composed of metavolcanics ranging in composition from basalts to
dacites and rhyolites and associated metasediments. The metasediments bear
evid~nce of shallow water origin such as ripple marks, crossbedding and mud aracks.
The metasediments include breccias, agglomerates, bedded tuffs and lavas, all
interbeded with marine clastics, rare limestones, tuffaceous slates, redeposited ash
and greywacke composed partly of volcanic fragments.

Andesites and acidic volCanics and associated sediments also occur in Aisha
uplift where they are known as Abdul Ghadar Series (Vishnevsky et aI., 1975). These
rocks contain strongly deformed,bodies of early diorite~ .and granodiorites and large
late to post-tectonic intrusions of granite and granodiorite of batholithic dimensions.
The rocks have been faulted and tightly folded to byild anticlinoriums afld anticlines but
subjected to only low grade metamorphism, mainly to lower greenschist facies. The
~ssociated sediments show sedimentary features such as graded bedding, current
bedding and very well preserved ripple ma~ksthat the superimposition of beds could be
identified very easily (Kazmin, 1972; Garland, 1980; Beyth, 1971).

3.7 Tambien GrouD(PR2t)

The youngest Precambrian units that underlie northern Ethiopia ari9 dominantl~
clastics with subordinate carbonates. One of these units described as the Tambien
- Group (PR2t) consists of thousands of meters thick of majnly slate and limestone with
interbedded phyllite (Beyth, 1971). It is named after TamBien area 'in central Tigray
region. Structures in these sediments suggest that they accumulated in relatively
shallow water. An important
, , unit in this group is' a black limestone containing algae,
including probable oolites (Beyth, 1~71). The Tambien Group (PR2t) has been divided
into the Arequa Formation (lower unit) and Mai Kental limestone (upper unit) inthe

26
 - . - - - --- - --.- - --- --- -- -- - -

course of regional mapping carried out in map sheet (Aksum) ND 37-6, (Adigrat) ND
37-7 (Adiarkay), ND 37-10 and (Mekela) ND 37-11 mapsheets (Garland, 1980).
The Arequa Formation, ~onsisting mainly of slates, is in turn, subdivided into
Werei Slate, Assem Limestone and Tsedia slate, from bottom to top and all have
conformable relationships (Garland, 1980). The Werei Slate is about 1000 meters
thick of mainly interbedded black s~ate,phyllite and limestone which has gradational
contact with the underlying Tsaliet Group. The Assem
. limestone. is about 300 meters
'thick of well-bedded' limestone interbedded with slate and marble. The Tsedia slate is

about 600 meters thick of variegated slate interbedded with limestone, quartzite and
dolomite. The Mai Kentallimestone, the upper unit of the Tambien Group, consists of
about 800 meters thick of black, massive, fine grained limestone partly algal and oolitic
commonly weathering into karstic topography and .has thin interbeds of dolomite and
thinly bedded limestone.
3.8 Didikama Formation lPR2d

The Didikama Formation consists of more than 1500 meters thick of creamish to
white dolomite alternating with gray, black or variegated slates. This formation occurs
in Tigray region, in northern Ethiopia and named aft.erits outcrop at Didikama village in
the Shiraro area (Kazmin, 1975; Garland, 1980) and extends northwards into Eritrea
and alsocropsout on the Danakil Alps. It conformably overlies the Tambien Group
(PR2t) in central and eastern Tigray region. However, in the West where the Tambien
Group is not fully developed or the upper formations of the Tambien Group are missing,
it rests unconformably on older formations (Garland, 1980). In the Shiraro area, at
Negash Syncline, it is unconformably overlapped by the youngest Precambrian
formation in Ethiopia, Matheos Formation (Kazmin, 1975; Garland: 1980). The
Matheos FOrrT)ationconsists of less than 30 meters thick, gray to black, well laminated,
and partly detrital limestone.

27

- ----
- - -- - - - - ------- -- -

3.9 Shiraro Formation (PR2s)

Also restricted t6 northern Eth.iopia,this formation overlies the older rocks with
marked angular unconformity (Kazmin, 1975). It consists mainly of sandstone and
conglomerate in which slate, phyllite and granite clasts predominate. The Shiraro
Formation is weakly folded as compared to the underlying rocks. The conglomerate is
greenish with abundant granite and other rock inclusions, some rounded, mostly
angular and well cemented. The granite boulders, which belong to the underlying
granite, reach up to 1 meters in diameters. The sandstone is coarse grained, pinkish,
massive with numerous cross-bedding. slightly metamorphosed with high content of
quartz and sericitized plagioclase.
3.10 Undifferentiated Late Proterozoic Rocks (PR2)

A thick succession of low-grade metavolcanics and metasediments occurs in the

southern half of the Belekiya mountains in the northeastern part of Ethiopia, (Kazmin,
1975; Garland, 1980). The metasediment portion includes phyllites, greywackes,
slates a~q. limestones. It is not known whether both the metavolcanics and
metasediments are part of the Tsaliet Group (PR2I) or the metasediments belong to the
Tambien Group (PR2t). These undifferentiated Late Proterozoic rocks probably belong
to one or both of the groups, but current geologic knowledge did not enable to classify
them with either.

4. PRECAMBRIANAND PHANEROZOICINTRUSIVES

4.1 Introduction

Several generations of Precambrian to Early Paleozoic intrusives are

widespread in the northern, southern, western parts of Ethiopia. The intrusive bodies
are 'pre to post-orogenic, with well preserved primary igneous textures and form large
masses of granites, granodiorites tonalities, diorites, hornblendites. gabbros and
ultramafics (gt4, gt3, g12, gd, tn, dt and gb) which intruded into both the high-grade
gneissic basement and the low-grade volcano-sedimentary succession. They occupy
approximately
morethan two-thirdsof the Precambrianterraneforminglarge composite

28
masses,someofwhichhavebathlllticdimensions.Mostof theseIntrusivesarerelated
to the tectonicdeve10pment
of the LateProterozoic
'Volcano-sedimentary
successions
or wereemplacedsubsequent
to theearlierperlod(s)of Intensetectonismduringwhich
the gnelsllc complexdeveloped. SomeIntrusivesIn the high gradeterranesare
ancientandmayrelateto thetectonicdevelopment
of the hostrocks. Therefore,It Is
ulually difficult to dlstlngullh and map the feilic Intrusivesseparatelyfrom the
supracrustalgnelilic hOlt rockl. Muchyoungerand typicallyalkaline(gtS)Intrullve
bo~lel,conlldered.1 proeur.ourof riftingIro expo.cad
Iiong thowe.ternmarginofthe
AfarCoproilion.
4.2~
Several bodies of gabbroic rocks occur associated mainly with the Late
Proterozoic volcano-sedimentary successions (Kazmin, 1972; UN, 1972; Davidson,
1983; Mengesh&, 1990; Teklewold and Moore, 1987). There are also some gabbroic
rocks within the high-grade gneisses and granulites. They clearly intruded their
enclosing supracrustal schist and gneiss country rocks and are themselves intruded by
later granitoid in1rusives. Foliation in the enclosing gneisses and schists was deflected
around some 'of the gabbroic plutons, suggesting that they were emplaced before or at
the time of deformation for the intrusives to behave as relatively rigid units. Where as
some gabbroic intrusives cut through the youngest Precambrian units in the northern,
western and southern part of the country. Someother gabbroic bodies show clear
concentric structures and are presumed to be formed as a number of arcuate dykes.

Overall the Metagabbro masses are commonly elongated or circular and are
heterogeneous both in composition and degree of deformation. The outcrops range
from massive to fairly foliated, commonly coarse grained and melanocratic. The central
parts of most of these plutons contain relatively unaltered rock with primary igneous
mineralogy and texture. Most of the gabbroic rocks are true gabbro, but some are
noritic. Plagioclase has the composition of labradorite, olivine is a rare constituent and
pyroxenes have been replaced partly or wholly by hornblende around the. rims and
cores. Both augite and hypersthene are present in most fresh specimens, but augite

29

-- - ---- -----
- - -- --- - ----- - -- -- --

alone occurs in some specimen. The presence of these too pyroxenes in some implya
compositional range from gabbro to norite.

Pre to syn-orogenic intrusive masses of diorite (dt), tonalite (tn), granodiorite

(gd) and granites (gt1 and g12)ranging from small stocks to batholiths are widespread
in the northern, western and southern parts of the country intruding into both the high-
grade gneisses and granulites and the low-grade volcano-sedimentary 'Succession. In
these terranes foliated granitoid plutons invade the high-grade gneisses and the low-
grade volcano-sedimentary assemblages, and preferentially occupy cores of major
antiforms. They are generally elongated, aligned and I or conformable with the
regional tectonic trends of the surrounding gneisses and schists.

The plutonic bodies are commonly medium to coarse grained, although locally
porphyritic and fine grained varieties occur. A considerable structural I deformational
variety exists among the granitoid plutons and the development of foliation is variable.
However most of the plutonic bodies are weakly to strongly deformed and well foliated.
In places they are also highly sheared, with well developed augen texture that some
have been na"medas orthogneisses' (gt1) since they are structurally well developed are
evidently post-tectonic with respect to the deformation history of the host rock. Their
structural relations and partly or wholly recrystallized nature in some localities, verfies
that they were emplaced earlier or accompanied the latest deforming event (hence the
name pre and or syn-tectonic granitoids) of the gneissic terranes.

The plutons show a wide range of compositionfrom diorite to granite. T"'e

diorites (dt) are m&diumgrained to dark gray, uniform,weakly to moderately well
foliated and loeally contain small, lenticularxenoliths of the host rocks. Although
essentially made of hornblende and andesine, the rocks compositionallyvary
., from
diorite to quartz diorite. Biotiteand hornblende are the common mafic minerals.

The metatonalites (tn) are generally weakly to strongly foliated, leucocratic and
mediumto coarse grained. Plagioclase(albite to oligoclase)and quartz are major

30
constituents and muscovite is a minor constituent. Biotite is typically the main mafic
mineral. Xenoliths of host roCksare locally present.

The granodiorites (gd) ate gray,. weakly to well foliated, and locally contain
small, lenticular xenoliths of the host rocks. They are essentially made of quartz,
oligoclase and subordinate microcline in various proportions. Most of the granodiorites
-contain both hornblende and biotite but some contain only biotite.

The granite plutons (gt1 and gt2) are light gray to pink, weakly to strongly
deformed or recrystallized, medium grained and generally equigranular. They are more
leucocratic than the diorite (dt) and granodiorite (gd). These granites contain biotite,
locally with muscovite and rarely with minor hornblende. K-feldspar (microcline)
content is equal or greater than that of plagioclase (oligoclase). Xenoliths are rare but
locally basic inclusions occur.

Rb/Sr and U/Pb zircon dates carried out on metaquartz-diorites,

metagranodiorites and metagranitesfrom the western part of the country yielded ages
of 829, 814, 780-760 Ma. respectively (Teklewold and Moore, 1989). The first two
represent pre to syn-tectonic plutons emplaced in the low-grade assemblages and the
third one represents a syn-tectonic granite intrusion within the Baro Group gneisses
(ARb).

4.4 Meta-ultramafic Rocks

Small bodies of these igneous rocks have been known in Wollega (Asosa), Kefa,
Sidaroo (Borona), Hararghe, the western part of the Tigray (Shire) regions and in
northern Eritrea (Barka and ,Anseb valley). Several small bodies of ultramafic rocks
occur near the road between Yabello and Agre 'MarYam associated with presumably
Yabello' Group rocks in Sidamo region (Kazmin, 1972), and within the mafic-rich
gneisses and granulites (ARk) mapped northwest of Konso (Davidson. 1983). The
ultrmafic bodies are characterized by hiUs w.ith sparse vegetation and distincti\le
purplish gray to white soils. Other outcrop surfaces are covered by' brown weathering
product with the rocks underneath commonly being pyroxenite, peridotite, dunite and
serpentinite.

-- --
 ----

Meta-ultramafic bodies occur as linear belts and mostly as elongated. masses

conformable with the regional structure of the adjacent mafic schists within which they
form smaller slivers. The Tulu Dimtu-Daleti-Yubdo ultramafics (Kazmin, 1972; 1978;
UN, 1972), Akobo ultr~mafic bodies (Daviqson 1983), Shingu-Bambasi-Dul ultramafic
bodies (Mengesha,. 1990), Anseb-Barka ultramafic bodies (Kazmin, 1972), Adola
ultramafic belts and Moyale ultramafic bodie& have a similar occurrence (Kazmin 1972
& 1978; Kozyre" et aI., 1985) and are associated with mafic schists.

These ultramfic bodies are commonly strongly sheared and serpentinized and
generally composed of serpentinized dunite, peridotite, pyroxenite and talc-chlorite
schists. They are capped by a peculiar brown or yellowish-brown rock called birbirite
named after the Birbir River (Kazmin, 1972; d~ Wit and Berg, 1977; UN, 1972). The

birbirite is exposed in the Birbir valley anq Yubdo area in Wollega region and is
composed predominantly of hematite, chalcedony and quartz.

Several strongly sheared, fractured and altered ultramafic bodies (serpentinites

and 'chlorite-talc-tremolite schists) are found associated with the Adola Group rocks in
the Adola area of Sidamo region (Kazmin, 1972 &1978; Kozyrev et aI., 1985). They
roughly fall in two linear belts; which extend from south of Kebri Mengist due north and
the other from south of Shakiso to the north. ~oth belts lie.at or parallel to the contacts
between the rocks of the Adola Group and the adjacent gneisses. These belts are
characterized by swells of serpentinite bodies forming prominent topographic features
in the area. These linear belts are described as dismembered and tectonically
emplaced ultramafic bodies of once larger masses, and may represent ophiolitic suture
zones (Kazmin et al. 1978 & 1979; Senbeto and de Wit, 1981; Vail, 1983).

4.5 Late and Post-tectonic and anoroaenic Granites and Syenites lat3...1Jt4.at5)

Discordant, relatively' equidimenSional and little deformed or massive granite

bodies and $yenites are found associated with the Precambrian basement and
phari1erozoicrifts. The late-tectonic granites (gt3) are generally medium grained, pink
to light gray 'and consist of plagioclase, microcline, quartz and mafic minerals like
biotite and hornblende. Undeformed late-tectonic granites show a porphyritic
to

32
 constituents and muscovite is a minor constituent. Biotite is typically the main mafic
mineral. Xenoliths of host rocKsare locally present.

The granodiorites (gd) are gray,. weakly to well foliated, and 19cally contain
small, lenticular xenoliths of the host rocks. They are essentially made of quartz,
oligoclase and subordinate microcline in various proportions. Most of the granodiorites
contain both hornblende and biotite but some contain only biotite.

The granite plutons (gt1 and g12) are light gray to pink, weakly to strongly
deformed or recrystallized, medium grained and generally equigranular. They are more
leucocratic than the diorite (dt) and granodiorite (gd). These granites contain biotite,
locally with muscovite and rarely with minor hornblende. K-feldspar (microcline)
content is equal or greater than that of plagioclase (oligoclase). Xenoliths are rare but
locally basic inclusions occur.

Rb/Sr and U/Pbzircon dates carried out on metaquartz-diorites,

metagranodiorites and metagranites from the western part of the country yielded ages,,--
of 829, 814, 780-760 Ma. respectively (Teklewold and Moore, 1989)., The first two
represent pre to syn-tectonic plutons emplaced in the ~ow-grade~a~s~mblages~nd th~ ~", ,/
,," -:. third onefe~reS~rits' a~yri:t~ctonic~gr~nite intrusion ~thin -the'Baro -Gt~up g.n~i~ges":~, /. ~,::X~
(ARb).
4.4 Meta-ultramafic Rocks

Small bodies of these igneous rocks have been known in Wollega (Asosa), Kefa,
Sidaroo (Borona), Hararghe, the western part of the Tigray (Shire) regions and in
northern Eritrea (Barka and Anseb valley). Several small bodies of ultramafic rocks
occur near the road between Yabello and Agre'MarYam associated with presumably
Yabello' Group rocks in Sidamo region (Kazmin, 1972), and within the mafic-rich
gneisses and granulites (ARk) '11appednorthwest of Konso (Davidson. 1983). The
ultrmafic bodies are characterized by hiUs w.ith sparse vegetation and distincti"e
purplish gray to white soils. Other outcrop surfaces are covered by-brown weathering
product with the rocks underneath commonly being pyroxenite, peridotite, dunite and
serpentinite.

--- --------- --- - -

 - - - ---

Meta-ultramafic
bodiesoccuras linearbeltsand mostlyas elongated'masses
conformable
withthe regionalstructureof the adjacentmaficschistswithinwhichthey
formsmallerslivers. TheTulu Dlmtu-Daletl-Yubdo ultramafics(Kazmln,1972; 1978;
UN, 1972), Akoboultr,maflcbodies(Davlqson
1983) Shlngu-Bambasl.Dul
ultramafic
bodies(Mengesha,1990), Anseb.Barka
ultramaficbodies(Kazmln,1972),Adola
ultramaficbeltsandMoyaleultramaficbodieshave8 ulmllaroccurrence(KazmJni.:,1972
,-
. I'
& 1978;KozyrevIt aI.,1986)andar.ea8soclated
withmaficschists.
Th.l. ultr.mflc bodI.. Ir. commonlyItrongly Ih.arod and .orp.ntlnizld and
gln8rlily compolld of 18rp8ntinizeddunitl, p8ridotlt8,pyroxeniteIiIndtlillc=chlorite
schists. Theyaree8ppedby a peculiar.brownor yellowi~t;-browri
rockeall@dbirbirite
named after the Birbir River (Kazmin, 1972; de Wit and Berg, 1977; UN, 1972).' The

birbirite is exposed in the Birbir valley and Yubdo area in Wollega region and is
composed predominantly of hemafite, chalcedony and quartz.

Several strongly sheared, fractured and altered ultramafic bodies (serpentinites

and ~hlorite-talc-tremolite schists) are found associated with the Adola Group rocks in
the Adola area of Sidamo region (Kazmin, 1972 &1978; Kozyrevet aI., 1985). They
roughly fall in two linear belts; which extend from south of Kebri Mengist due north and
the other from south of Shakiso to the north. Both belts lie at or parallel to the contacts
between the rocks of the Adola Group and the adjacent gheisses. These belts are
characterized by swells of serpentinite bodies forming prominent topographic features
in the area. These linear belts are described as dismembered and tectonically
emplaced ultramafic bodies of once larger masses, and may represent ophiolitic suture
zones (Kazmin et al. 1978 & 1979; Senbeto and de Wit, 1981; Vail, 1983).

Discordant, relatively equidimension~1 and little deformed or massive granite

bodies and ~yenites are found associated with the Precambrian basement and
phanerozoic rifts. The late-tectonic granites (gt3) are generally medium grained, pink
to light gray land consist of plagioclase, microcline, quartz and mafic minerals like
biotite and hornblende. Undeformed late-tectonic granites show a porphyritic
to

32
granular texture, in which large subhedral to anhedral microcline and subhadral
plagioclase grains are surrounded by a matrix of finer grained plagioclase, microcline,
q~artz, biotite and hornblende. The deformed ones contCJinquartz and feldspar
showing undulose extinction.

The post-tectonic granites (gt4) are massive, pink and porphyritic, containing
phenocrysts of K-feldspar set in a fine to medium grained, subhedral, granular
groundmass and usually contain randomly oriented angular xenoliths of the host rocks.
The predominant minerals are intergown microcline and quartz (perthite), plagioclase
and mafic phases include biotite and hornblende with accessory minerals 'such as
allanite, apatite, magnetite, titanite and zircon. U-Pb zircon dating conducted on late to
post tectonic-granites from western part of the country yielded ages of 541 Ma. and 570
Ma. (Teklewold and Moore, 1989). These dates probably mark the end of tectonic and
igneous activities associated with .the Precambrian basement rocks in the country:

Anorogenic igneous complexes related to rifting in the Tertiary are

characteristically alkaline granites and syenites (gt5). They appear unrelated in
distribution and geochemistry to those associated vyith the Precambrian high-grade
gneisses and low-grade volcano-sedimentary 'assemblages. AlkaU granite and syenite
intrusions of Tertiary age (gt5) occur in the Afar and Danakil Depressions. These rocks
are mainly alkaline riebeckite granites and syenites with ages ranging from 25 to 22 Ma
(Varet,1978). Other alkaline felsic intrusions also occur in the Precambrian terranes of
western and southern parts of the country and mapped as Gangan, Abu Ramla,

Abolonge alkali granites and syeriites (Kazmin, 1972; Mengesha, 1990; UN,
1972; Davidson, 1983). No age data is available for these intrusions, however,
analogous intrusions elsewhere in northeast Africa suggest that they possibly are of
Paleozoic age.

The Abu Ramal and Abolonge intrusions have a ring structure and are
composed of alkali syenite, which consists mainly of alkali feldspars, alkali hornblende,
biotite, rare quartz and apatite, and show trachytic texture (Kazmin, 1972; Davidson,
1983). The Abu Ramla and Abologe ring complexes are not associated with extrusive

33

--- - - - - --
 -------- ~ - -

rocks; however, it is likely that these co!'1lplexesare deeply eroded feeder intrusions to
now eroded felsic flows similar to those that are still preserved. The Gangan Mt. is built
of both alkaline syenite and granite (UN, 1972; Mengesha, 1990). The northern slope
of the mountain is built of alkali syenite consisti.ng of mainly microcline, perthite
anorthoclase and albite, with little riebeckite, quattz and sphene. The southern slope
of the mountain is made of alkali granite consisting of orthoclase, perthite, oligoclase,
quartz and hornblende.

4.6 ~kes and..f.Juas(Otper Intrusions)

Numerous small, hypabyssal intrusions of dolerite, trachyte, phonolite, micro-

syenite, and micro-granite occur throughout the country, both within the Precambrian
basement and the Phanerozoic cover rocks, sediments and pre and post-rift volcanic
successions (Kazmin, 1972; UN, 1972, D'avidson, 1983). The larger intrusions usually
form paaks arid are volcanic necks of the centers for thick piles of felsic extrusive
rocks.. Most of tne plugs (volcanic necks) are resistant to erosion and stand out as
sharp well defined, rounded or conical hills which occur in clusters and locally along
fracture lines. Large intrusions are centered in thick accumulation of felsic flows
indicating that.they are the sites of former centr.alvolcanic complexes.

Both isolated and swarms of narrow dykes and sills of dolerite, trachyte and
.granite are common. In the northern part of the country clusters of dolerite dykes and
sills that occur within the Mesozoic sediments (Arkin et al. 1971) were named as
Mekele dolerite and are black andesine dolerite with ophitic texture. They usually
occur as sills

and dykes intruding the Adigrat Formation (Ja), Antalo Formation (Jt) and Agula
Formation (Jg) in the Mekele outlier and occur as small stocks intruding crystalline
basement and sedimentary rocks in the escarpment.

Most of the hypabyssal felsic rocks are massive. Locally xenoliths of both earlier
intrusives and the wall rock, including Precambrian basement rocks are carried up from
a deeper level. Many of the hypabyssal rocks are somewhat porphyritic, with' ubiqitous
phenocrysts of plagioclase, but quartz, amphibole and pyroxene phenocrysts are also

34
present in some of the rocks. Many of these intrusions are related in age to nearby
felsic dxtrusive rocks or have the same age as the flows within which they have been
emj:'laced.

"
II

35
---

i
j
 IV. PHANEROZOIC COVER ROCKS

1. LATE PALEOZOIC TO EARLY MESOZOIC SEDIMENTS (Pzt)

Non-metamorphosed continental sedimentary rocks mainly sandstones and

- minor tillite, shale, siltstone and conglomerate, which are considered to be Late-
Paleozoic to Early Mesozoic age, occur in the northern, western, southern and eastern
parts of Ethiopia. The Enticho Sandstone and Edaga Arbi Glacials, in Tigray region
(Beyth, 1971; Dow et aI., 1971; Levitti, 1972; Garland, 1972 & 1980), Permian
sandstone in IIlubabor and Kefa regions (Davidson, 1983), Gura Sandstone in Bale
region (Belay, unpublished report), Middle Abay tillite exposures (Jepson and
Athearn,1961), Waju Sandstone (Mohr, 1963; Kazmin, 1975) and Calub Sandstone,
Gumburo Sandstone and Bokh Shale from ileep bore holes in the Ogaden region are
examples of this Late-Paleozoic to Early-Mesozoic continental sediments.

The Enticho Sandstone and Edaga Arbi Glacial (Dow et aI., 1971) occur in the
northern part of Ethiopia. The Enticho Sandstone is named after the town of Enticho on
the Aksum-Adigrat road, and the Edaga Arbi Glacials is named after the Edaga Arbi
type section. The Enticho Sandstone is about 160 meters thick and composed of white,
calcareous, coarse grained, cross bedded sandstone containing lenses of siltstone, grit
and polymict conglomerate with subrounded to well rounded pebbles, cobbles and
boulders. Scattered erratics, mainly granite and gneiss are common in places. The
Edaga Arbi Glacials, tillite and other glacial rocks, have a thickness in the range of 150
to 180 meters. The rocks have been correlated to either of the Late Carboniferous
glacial. rocks of southern Africa or to the Ordovician glacial rocks of Hoggar district of
.
southern Algyria (Dow et aI., 1971). The tillite overlies the Enticho Sandstone,
however, the latter is reported to interfinger with the glacial rocks at several places
between Adwa and Adigrat towns.

In the Abay River Canyon due south of Lake Tana, sandstone, siltstone and
shale fill channels in the Precambrian rocks and are unconformably overlain by the
Adigrat Formation (Ja) (Jepson and Athearn, 1961). Another occurrence of sandstone,

36

I.
silt and shale with fossil evidence of possible Silurian age have been reported in the
Fincha Valley, Wollega region (Mesfin, personal communication).

Medium to coarse grained yellow sandstone, grit and shale of the Waju
Sandstone fill channels in the Precambrian basement extending across the present-day
Jerjertu, Ramis and Soca Valleys in Hararghe region (Mohr, 1963; Kazmin, 1975).
They are unconformably overlain by the Adigrat Formation. The presence of silicified
wood suggests Late Paleozoic continental erosion and deposition. In western and
southern Ethiopia, scattered occurrences of mainly sandstone with minor siltstone and
conglomerate of originally more extensive nature occur in Gilo and Waka basins in
lIIubabor region; west of Tepi town and in Kari River in Kefa region (Davidson, 1983)
and in Gura River in Bale region (Belay, unpublished report). Palynological analysis
has proven a Permian age for the Gilo Basin and Kari River sandstones. (Davidson,
1983; Davidson and Mc Gregor, 1976). Several hundred meters thick of sandstones
and shale, Calub Sandstone, Gumburo Sandstone and Bokh Shale, overlain by the
Adigrat Formation have also been found in deep bore holes drilled for natural oil and
gas expioration in the eastern Ogaden region.

2. MESOZOIC SEDIMENTARY ROCKS

2.1 Adiarat Formation (Ja)

The Adigrat Formation (Ja) which varies in thickness from a few meters to 800

!lleters, was originally named as Adigrat Sandstone after Adigrat town in Tigray region
(Blanford, 1870), and includes the whole succession of clastic rocks resting
unconformably on the Precambrian basement and overlain unconformably by the.
Antalo Formation (Jt); (Dow et aI., 1971; Garland, 1980). The Adigrat. Formation in
some parts of northern Ethiopia rests with a slight disconformity on the Late Paleozoic
to Early Mesozoic sedimentary rocks of Entichd Sandstone and Edaga Arbi Glacials
(Pzt) and is overlain by Antalo Formation (Jt). However, in Harar:-DireDawa area and
deep boreholes in the Ogaden region, it is overlain by the Hamanilei Formation (Jh)
(Mohr, 1965: Beyth, 1971; Dow et aI., 1971; Kazmin, 1972; Garland, 1980).

37
 -
The Adigrat Formation chiefly comprises sandstone with minor lenses of
siltstone and conglomerate and laterite up to two meters thick (Garland, 1972). The
formation is typically yellowish to pink with a laterized top to a depth of about 20 meters
and composed of fine to medium grained, well sorted, cross bedded quartz sandstone.
It is non-calcareous except at the top near the contact with the overlying Antalo
Formation (Jt) or Hamanilei Formation (Jh), where thin beds of limestone have
developed.

In the central part of the country, in the Abay Canyon, variegated sandstone,
siltstone and shale correlable with the Adigrat Formation (Ja), occur between the
Precambrian Basement and the Abay Formation or Tertiary volcanics. In Harar-Dire
Dawa area, the sandstone, which lies between the Precambrian Basement rocks and
Hamanilei Formation (Jh), is conglomeratic, pporly to moderately sorted. Along the
Danakil Alps, the sandstone becomes fine grained and calcareous and lacks cross
bedding, and is intercalated with siltstone and shale indicating deeper water conditions
of deposition.

2.2 Hamanilei Formation (Jh)

The Hamanilei Formation previously known as Hamanilei Series (Barberi, 1968;

Kazmin, 1972 & 1975; Slobodian, 1984; BIECEP, 1985 and references cited therein) is
w~ed for the fossiliferous limestone of Jurassic age of southeastern Ethiopia and the
Ogaden region. The Hamanilei Formation (Jh),which consists of predominantly of
limestone and dolomite is exposed in wide areas of Hararghe, Sidamo and Bale areas
(Mohr, 1963, Greitzer, 1970) and is encountered in several drill holes in the eastern
Ogaden. The rocks of this formation have gradational contacts with the underlying
Adigrat Formation (Ja) and overlying Urandab Formation (Ju). The Hamanilei
Formation (Jh) reaches a thickness of up to 1350 meters in eastern Ogaden (Kazmin,
1972). The lowest part of the formation observed in deep drill holes consists of
limestone overlain by thick beds of dolomites and anhydrites and is in turn overlain by
limestone (Slobodian, 1984). Fossil evidence indicates that the series ranges from
Liassic to Oxfordian.

38

~
 .--
2.3 Abav Formation (J.Q1

The Abay Formation previously named as Abay Beds and the lower unit of the
former Antalo Group (Kazmin, 1972; 1975) occurs in the Abay River lying between the
Adigrat and the Antalo Formations. The formation consists of a 196 meters thick of
sandy limestone and calcareous sandstone; a 257 meters thick unit of gypsum, as well
as a 138 meters thick upper unit of a sequence of alternating shale and limestone
bringing the total thickness of the formation to 580 meters. The Abay Formation (Jb) is
middle Jurassic age.
2.4 Urandab and Antalo Formation (Ju and Jt)

The Antalo Formation was first named by Blanford (1870) at the type locality as
Antalo Limestone in Tigray region, and later described in detail by Mohr (1963), Beyth
(1971), Kazmin.(1972 & 1975) and Merla (1973 & 1979). The Antalo Formation is a
750 meters thick sequence which consists predominantly of fossiliferous yellow
limestone containing thin beds of marl and calcareous shale, and occasionally
arenaceous bands near the top.

In the Mekele area, it conformably overlies the Adigrat Formation (Ja) and
grades upward into Agula Formation (Jg) (Garland, 1980). In the Adigrat area, the total
thickness is more than 1000 meters. In the Danakil Alps, where the unit consists of
thinly bedded, pale fossiliferous limestone, the succession reaches a thickness of up to
1420 meters.

The marginal parts of the Mekele outlier consist of sandy oolitic facies
suggesting a near shore environment. While in the escarpment black limestone and
shale indicates deeper water conditions of deposition. In the Abay River canyon the
Antalo Formation, wtiose age is considered to be Middle to Late Jurassic .is restricted to
the upper 288 meters thick former Antalo Group (Kazmin, 1975) and lies between the
Abay Formation and the Tertiary volcanics being separated from the Adigrat Formation
by the Abay Formation.

39

-- -
 - ---

A succession consisting of black shale and marly and gypsiferous limestone,

Urandab Formation, formerly described as Urandab Series (Kazmin, 1975; Raaben et
aI., 1979), comparable in age to the Antalo Formation, occurs in the eastern and
southern parts of the country. The unit consists of abundant microfossils on the basis
of which the formation was assigned an age of Oxfordian-Kimmeridgian. In the
Hararghe region, 95 meters thick of brown marly limestone with alternating clay and
limestone is included with the Urandab Formation. This unit is also encountered in
some boreholes in eastern Ogaden.

The Urandab Formation rests on the washed out surface of the upper part of the
Hamanilei Formation (Jh) Over most of the area, Urandab Formation is represented
mainly by greenish gray to black, poorly carbonaceous organogenic shales. Gray to
black argilaceous limestones are often found within the lower part of the sequence and
are .usually minor than the shales. Up the section lies a member of limestones which is
dark-gray wjth greenish shades, often changing.to calcareous argillites. This grades
upward into light gray to green, clastic argillites.

2.5 Aaula Formation (Ja)

In Tigray region, in the Mekele outlier and around the escarpment a gray-green
and black shale, marl and claystone interlaminated with finely - crystalline black
limestone containing disseminated pyrite with some gastropods and brachiopods was
previously named as Agula Shale after Agula village and overlies the Antalo Formation
(Jt) (Arkin et aI., 1971; Kazmin, 1975). The sequence which is 60 to 250 meters thick,
contains some thin beds of gypsum and dolomite and a few beds of yellow coquina.
Near Antalo village, a 200 meters thick unit of a correlable red and greenish silty marl
occurs. The Agula Formation (Jg) is of Late JurassIc (Kimmeridgian) age, and is of
probable lagobnal origin representing a regression phase of the Jurassic sea.

40
- - --< - - - - - - ~-

2.8

This sequencecon,lstlngof marlylimestoneand shaly limestone(Lowerunit

Jg1andupperunitJg2)formerlynamedastheGabredarre
Series(Kazmln,1972 &
1975),representsthe uppermostpartof the JurassicsedimentarysuccessionIn the
westernand easternOgaden. The GabredarreFormationIs exposedIn the Wabl
Shebeleand FafenRiverand consistsmainlyof light coloredoolitic limestoneand
marl.becominggYP81ferou8
and shallyeastward(Kazmln.1972), A thlckne8sof 410
moter.at Gabrodarroand629metterlInthoGumburowellhavebeenrecorded(Merla.
1(79):
ihe Gabredarre Formation rests on the Urandab FOrmation (Ju) and is
conformably overlain by the Koratle Formation (Kg1 and Kg2). The transition from the
underlying Urandab Formation is sharp in eastern Ogaden and more gradual in
western Ogaden. In the western part of Ogaden there is a lateral transition from
limestones to sandstones with subordinate intercalations of limestones." A Tithonian
age has 'been postulated for the Gabredarre Formation on the basis of foraminifera
identified in the formation (Raaber et aI., 1979).

2.7 Korahe Formation (Ka1 and Ka2)

The Korahe Formation, formerly named as the Main Gypsum Unit (Kazmin, 1972
& 1975), represents the lowermost part of the Cretaceous succession in the Ogaden
region, in eastern Ethiopia; where it is exposed in the Wabi Shebele and Genale
Valleys. It varies in thickness from 100 to 500 meters. It has gradational contact with
the underlying Gebredarre Formation (Jg2 and Jg1) and is overlain by the Mustahil
Formation (Km).

The lower part of the Ko"ahe Formation ,(Kg1) consists of alternations oT

dolomitic limestone, marl, shale and anhydrite. Sandstone predominates the basal part
of the formation. Anhydrite beds become abundant in the upper part of the sequence.

The upper part of the formation \(Kg2) consists of massive, white and gray anhydrite
with beds of dolomite and shale.. The Korahe Formation has been assigned

41

----
 -- --- --

Neocomian age on the basis of choffatellaand orbitolina found in the unit (Merla,
1979).
2.8 MustahiJ Formation (Km)

Rocks of the Mustahil Formation (Km), formerly known as the Mustahil Series
(Kazmin, 1972 & 1975), crop out on both sides of the lower Wabi Shabele valley near
the village of Mustahil after which the unit is named, and in Fafan Valley in the eastern
part of the country. The lower part of the formation consists of light gray limestones
interbedded with shales and marls. The upper part of the sequence is made of cream
organogenic, partly reef limestones. The Mustahil Formation has been assigned the
Aptian to Albian age on the basis of paleontological evidence (Kazmin, 1975).

2.9 Ferrer Formation (Kf)

The Ferfer Formation formerly known as Ferfer Gypsum (Kazmin, 1975), occurs
in southeastern Ogaden outcropping in the lower part of thE. l\Jabl ShatJele valley near
the. S6malia border. It has conformable relationship with both the underlyings Mustahil
(Km) and overlying Belet Uel1 (Kb) Formations. The Ferfer Formation (Kf) consists of
alternating grayish brown, commonly peletal dolomite, IJray clayey limestone, olive gray
",.. \ I _ ~~,~ ;:...,:.' -" "_.' ~ _'__ ;.., -:_ ' _ -"--," r" '-, --...

marl, shale and white-'anhydrite:' In' the lazgaf and Marehan' sections anhydrite"
predominates. The formation varies from 100 to 200 meters in thickness. An Albian to
Cenomanian age has been deduced for the Ferfer Formation on the basis of the ages
of the ,underlying and overlying Formations.

2.10 Belet Uen Formation (Kb)

The Belet Uen Formation (Kb), also previously known as Belet Uen Series
occurs in southeastern Ogaden and varies in thickness from 87 meters to 232 meters
(Kazmin, 1975; Merla: 1979). The formation named after the Belet Uen type locality in
northern Somalia (Merla, 1979) extends as far north as around Shilabo area following
the Wabi Shebele Valley into Ethiopia.

The Belet Uen Formation conformably overlies the Ferer Formation (Kf) and is in
turn cOFlformablyoverlain by the Jessoma Formation (Pj). The formation consists of

42
 -.- --- --

cream to light gray colored limestones, some of which are of reef origin, with
intercalations of greenish gray ~~Iauconiticshales and green or brown sandstone. It has
been assigned an age of Cenomanian to Turonian on the basis of fossil evidence
(Merla, 1979).

2.11 Amba Aradom Formation «a)

The Amba Aradom Formation (Ka.), formerly known as the upper sandstone
(Mehade, 1968; Beyth, 1971; Arkin et al. 1971; Kazmin, 1972 & 1975) occurs in
. eastern, central and northern (Tigray region) parts of Ethiopia. The formation consists
( of sandstone, shale and marl. It lies conformably on the Jurassic Antalo Formation (Jt)
) in central part of the country, whereas in the Mekele (Tigray) and Garamulata
(Hararghe) areas, it lies unconformably on the Jurassic sediments, namely, Jt and/or Ja
and Ju and/or Jh (Mahadi, 1968; Greitzer, 1970; Kazmin, 1975).

In northern part of the Mekele outlier, the formation consists of claystone and
siltstone with interbedded massive, sometimes cross bedded, white to pink sandstone
(Arkin et aI., 1971; Beyth, 1971). The rocks become progressively coarser in grain size
southwards. Further south, on the southern rim of the outlier, the conglomerates and
sandstones give way to fine grained sediments as the formation thickens again. In
most of the area the formation is laterized.

In the Abay River canyon the thickness ranges from 450 to 600 meters, in
Garamulata, Haraghe region the unit is more than 300 meters thick whereas in the
Danakil Alps, the unit is only 1E,Ometers thick. The Amba Aradom Formation (Ka) is
probably of Late Cretaceous agE!and represents a regressive facies of the Cretaceous
sea (Kazmin, 1975).

3. EARLY TERTIARY SEDIMENTARY ROCKS

3.1 Jessoma Formation (Pi)

This formation, formerly known as Jessoma Sandstone (Kazmin 1972 & 1975)
covers a wide area in the eastern most part of the Tertiary sedimentary basin in eastern
Ethiopia (Ogaden). The Jessor'la Formation (Pj) is a transgressive unit which rests

43

- --
 --- - - - - - --

unconformablyon older formations but Is conformably overlain by the Auradu

Formation(Pa)of LatePaleoceneto EarlyEoceneage (Kllzmln,1975;Merla.1979).

The JessomaFormation(Pj) consistsof gray and variegatedsandstoneswith

Intercalationsof variegatedshalss and horizonsof laterites. It Is of fluvial continental
origin In the western part. and near shore littoral type II' the eastern part ~Elwerath,
1967). TheJes80maFormation
variesInthicknessfrom100metersInthewesternpart
to 300 metersIn the 93sternpart of the formation(Kszmln,1975), Fossilsare absent
butL.otoCrotacooulto Plleoconolgo 1'111 beendeduced,
3:2~
The Auradu Formation, previously termed as .A,uraduSeries occurs in the
eastern-most part of the Ogaden sedimentary basin (Kazrnin, 1972 & 1975). The lower
part of the formation consists of cliff forming, massive, gray to pale pink limestone with
iron-stained chert concretions and several basalt flows. The upper part of the
formation (Allahkajid beds) consists of similar massive limestone but alternating with
thinly bedded chalky or gypsiferous limestone, and in E;omeinstances with greenish
brown calcareous shale (Mohr, 1962a). It is overlain conformably by the Taleh
Formation (Pt). In the adjacent parts of Somalia the thickness varies from 70 to 400
meters. Foraminifera found in the upper part indicate Early Eocene age, and a Late
Paleocene age is inferred for the lower part of the sequence (Kazmin, 1972 & 1975).

3.3 Taleh Formation (Pt)

The Taleh Formation (Pt), formerly named as Taleh Series, occurs. at the
eastern most corner of the Ogaden region along the border with Somalia (Kazmin,
1972 & 1975). It lies conformably on the lower sequence of the Auradu Formation (Pa),
but interfingers with its upper part. It has gradational relationship with the overlying
Karkar Formation (Pk) with the upper part of the Taleh Formation grading laterally into
chalky limestone of the Karkar Formation (Pk).

The Taleh Formation (Pt) consists of massive banded anhydrite superficially

I I
altered to gypsum with irregular interbeds of fossiliferous cherty limestone and devoid

44

II
of clastic deposits. It is similar to the Gypsum-anhydrite series of Somalia which attains
a maximum thickness of 350 meters and thins rapidly towards the West. Early to
Middle Eocene age is inferred for the Taleh Formation from the accurate age of
interfingering with upper Auradu Formation and gradational contact with the Karkar
Formation (Pk).

3.4 Karkar Formation (Pk)

The Karkar Formation also known as Karkar Series covers a relatively very small
area in the extreme eastern part of Ogaden along the northern Somalia frontier where it
covers much wider ground and attains a thickness of 230 meters (Kazmin, 1972 &
1975). The Karkar Formatior' consists of white cavernous chalky limestone
interbedded with brown fissile shale and bands of fibrous gypsum, which are
particularly common near the base. Lithological and faunal evidence suggest
deposition under deeper water cOr'lditionsthan those of the Taleh evaporites. On the
basis of micropalaeotological evidence, the Karkar Formation (Pk) has been assigned
an age of Middle Eocene (Kazmin 1972 & 1975).

45

- - - - - -- -
 - - -- -- -

4. TERTIARY VOLCANIC AND SEDIMENTARYROCKS

4.1 Introduction
Mohr (1962) divided the Cenozoic volcanic rocks of Ethiopia into the Trap
Series and Aden Series. The term Trap Series is still widely used to refer to the whole
pile of the Tertiary flood basalt sequence with intercalation of felsic lava and pyroclastic
rocks (commonly on the upper part) which form the northwestern and southeastern
plateaus and attain a thickness of up to 3 km. The name Aden Series was used for
post-rift (Middle Miocene to Quaternary) volcanic rocks of the Main Ethiopian Rift, Afar
Depression and some parts of the Ethiopian plateaus. Recent studies have enabled to
identify several distinct volcanic pulses in both the Trap Series and Aden Series The
following criteria were used to make the classification.

1. Radiometric age determinations have in many instances been used to distinguish

between the different volcanic pulses and make correlations in diverse structural
and physiographic conditions. However, withoLt other field and geochemical
evidence K/Ar dates alone may not provide a conclusive criterion. For example
Zanettin et al. (1980) have shown that the tilted and crushed basalt flows of the
Ashangi Formation (P2a) gave K/Ar ages younger than the overlying Aiba Basalts
(P3a). In such situations field evidence such as intensity of alteration after
emplacement by subsequent tectonic movements and weathering enabled to
distinguish between the two volcanic pulses. Thus the faulted, tilted, crushed and
weathered nature together with their occurrence under the major Pre-Oligocene
unconformity h~s characterized the Ashangi Basalts when K/Ar ages were found to
be inconclusive.
2. Migration of volcanism controlled by the regional sTuctural development have been
documented within the Tertiary flood basalt province in Ethiopia. A north to south
migration of volcanism in the region has been suggested by Kazmin 1979 a,
accompanied by rifting of the Red Sea at first wh:ch was followed by rifting in the
Afar Depression and finally at the Main Ethiopian Rift. A rift ward younging of
surface volcanic rocks in the Addis Ababa area has also been confir!Tledby Morton

46
 et al. (1979) which showed that volcanism has migrated to the axial zones of the
developing rifts (e.g. Wonji Fault Belt) which later became the locus of Quaternary
volcanism. Abbate and Sagri (1980) also using other structural criteria have divided
the volcanics of t.he Ethiopian and S~malia plateau into three main successions
(namely, the north Ethiopian plateau volcanics, the Wollega and southwestern
Ethiopia volcanics and the Somali plateau volcanics). The main structures
controlling the distribution of. these successions are the escarpment of Afar
Depression, the Main Ethiopian Rift and transversal lineaments such as Adwa-
Aksum, Addis Ababa-Ambo-NI3kemte,and Bonga-Goba and Sagan.
3. The type of volcanic activity has been used to distinguish I classify the different
volcanic episodes. e.g. shield forming basaltic volcanism (Pntb & Ntb) versus
fissural flood basaltic volcanism (P2a& P3a).
4. Several attempts have been done to characterize gechemically the different pulses
of the Cenozoic volcanic roc,o(Sin Ethiopia (Zanettin et al. 1974, 1976 & 1980;
Piccirillo et aI., 1979; Mohr, 1983;). As an example the Ashangi and Aiba pulses
consist of dominantly basalts whereas the Alajae Formation is represented by a
bimodal rhyolite (ignimbrite) and basaltic volcanism. Moreover a change in the
alkalinity of the flood basalt sequence of the western plateau was observed; the
youngest shield forming stagt~ (Tarmaber Formation) was found to be typically
alkaline. An increase in alkalirity in the younger plateau flood basalt sequence and
of the flood basalts of the western plateau from north to south has been suggested
by aerhe et al. (1987). Most of the Quaternary basalts (Qb), of the Main Ethiopian
Rift and Ethiopian Plateaus an3 transitional in nature whereas basalts of the axial
zones of the Afar Depression stlowa distinctive tholeiitic affinity. Furthermore, most
of the Quaternary silicic volcanic products (Qr & Qd) in the axial zones of the Main
Ethiopian Rift and the Afar Depression are characteristically peralkaline whereas
Mio-Pliocene silicic volcanic pr::>ducts(Nn & Nc) from centers along the rift magin
are predominantly sub-alkaline (Di Paola, 1972; Gibson, 1972, Chernet, 1995).
5. The type of substratum has been used to distinguish between and classify the
differe[1t volcanic pulses. The! different volcanic formations shown on the map
---
47

--- - - - --
 - - - - - ------

.
typically overlie the Precambrian basement (Pjb, PNmb); Paleozoic or Mesozoic
sediments (P2a)and/orpreexistingvolcanicrocks(P:!a,Ntb).
The Cenozoic volcanic and sedimentary covers Gonsist of the followingunits on
the accompanying geological map.
4.2 Ashanai Formation (P2~

The Ashangi Formation represents the earliest fi:;sural flood basalt volcanism on
the northwestern plateau. The basalt flows are several hundreds of meters to a
kilometers thick of strongly weathered, crushed, tilted basalts which lie below the major
Pre-Oligocene unconformity (Zanettin et aI., 1980). Thl3Ashangi Formation consists of
predominantly mildly alkaline basalts with interbeddecl pyroclastics and rare rhyolites
and is commonly injected by dolerite sills and dykes. The upper part of the Ashangi
Formation is more tuffaceous and contains interbedde1jlacustrine deposits with lignite
seams. It was believed that these early flood banalt flows are restricted to the
northwestern plateau (Zanettin and Jusetin Visentin, 1975, Merla et al. 1973, 1979)
until a group of early flood basalt were found in southwestern Ethiopia (Davidson,
1983) with KfAr ages between 49 to 36 Ma. Among tl1ese the Akobo Basalt (49 to 46
Ma.) are here considered to be analogous with the basalts of the Ashangi Formation.

The age of the Ashangi Formation in the type area remains uncertain (Zanettin
et ~I., 1980). The oldest reported age for a volcanic rock on the northwestern plateau
is 54 Ma. (Kazmin, 1979 and references cited therein). The general consensus
remains that the Ashangi Formation have a Eocene to Oligocene age. However, basalt
flows and tuffs interbedded in Jurassic and Cretacemus sediments have also been
mapped in the Kulubi-Dire Dawa area on the southeastern plateau (Merla et aI., 1973)
and in Sakota area (Wello region) on the western plateau and appear to be evidence
"for an earlier basaltic volcanism related to the mantle plume which resulted in the
J~rassic uplift of Afro-Arabia.

48
4.3 Jima Volcanics (Pib and Pir)

The name Jima volcanics was given by Merla et al. (1973) to trachybasalts and
rhyolites which cover most parts of southwestern Ethiopia. The Jima volcanics which
are considered analogous with t.le Main Volcanic Sequence of Davidson (1983), form a
thick succession of basalts and felsic rocks with basalts dominating the lower part of .
most sections. Davidson (1983) has reported K/Ar age of 42.7 to 30.5 Ma for the Jima
Volcanics. Two units (Jima Basalts - Pjb and Jima Rhyolites - Pjr) which show a
conformable relationship were identified. The Jima Rhyolites being the younger of the
two units in southwestern Ethio::)iaare equivalent to the Magadala Group of Kazmin
(1972). The Jima volcanics almost always rest on the Precambrian basement, the
unconformity being marked by a basal residual sandstone. The basalt flows form an
unbroken succession several hundred meters thick in some places. In others felsic
rocks are intercalated with basalt flow close to the base or form a thick succession just
above the basal basalts.

4,4 Aiba Basalts (P3m

The Aiba Basalts represent the second major pulse of fissural basalt volcanism
on the northwestern plateau. Tl1ey are generally aphyric, compact rocks, in place"',
showing stratification and contain rare interbedded basic tuffs. The Aiba Basalts (P3a)
unconformably overlie the Ashan!~iFormation (P2a)and attain a thickness of 200 to 600
meters. The basalts show a distinctive tholeiitic nature with transitions to mildly
alkaline varieties. The absolute age of the Aiba Basalts (P3a)ranges from 34 to 28 Ma.
placing them in Oligocene (Zanettin et aI., 1980; Kazmin, 1979).

4.5 Arsi and Bale Basalts lPab

The name Arsi and Bale Basalts (Pab) was given to the flood basalt succession
of the southeastern plateau whem the flood basalt activity culminated by the formation
of large volcanic edifices which fcrmed some of the highest peaks on the southeastern
plateau. The Arsi and Bale Basalts (Pab) are also commonly felsic on the upper parts.
Merla et al. (1973) gave an age range between Oligocene to Miocene to these basalts
which makes them in part correlable to the Makonnen Basalts (Pnmb) of southwestern

49

-
 -- - - -

Ethiopia. The Arsi and Bale Basaltsare overlainby the Ghinir Formationin the east
and post-riftvolcanicsof the NazretSeries(Nn)in the northwestand by the Quaternary
Basaltsof the BatuMountainsin the south.

4.6 Makonnen Basalts (PNmb)

The name Makonnen Basalts was coined by Davidson (1983) for up to 700
meters thick of sub-horizontal flood basalts which cap the plateau in southern and
southwestern Ethiopia (Le. those of the Makonnen, Gecha, Nano and Gura Ferda
plateaus). The Makonnen Basalts (PNmb) mostly directly overlie on the crystalline
basement in the type area and yielded an obsolute K'Ar age range of 34.8 to 23.1 Ma
(Late Oligocene to Early Miocene) by Davidson (1983). The Makonnen Basalts are
physically separated and are readily distinguishabh3 on the basis of similar basal
elevation, columnar form, thickness of flows and t 1e fact that they have a basal
paleosol rather than a residual sandstone.

The Wollega Basalts of Merla et al. (1973) which were later subdivided into the
Lower Aphyric Basalts and Geba Basalts by Berhe et al. (1987) are here considered to
be analogous with the Makonnen Basalts. However tile KIAr age range of Middle-Late
Miocene given to the Wollega Basalts by BerhE! et al. (1987) are apparently
questionable since the ages are equal and even younger than those the overlying
Upper Aphyric Basalt. The Lower stratoid basalts maoped in the Dodola map sheet, in
southern Ethiopia, with an absolute age range from :m to 23 Ma (Berhe et aI., 1987),
are also correlable with the Makonnen Basalts.

4.7 Alaiae Formation (PNa)

The Alajae Formation (PNa) mainly consists of aphyric flood basalts associated
with rhyolit~ (ignimbrites) and subordinate trachytes. This formation (PNa) ranges in
age between 36-13 Ma (Kazmin, 1979; Zanettin et aL, 1980). A migration of Alajae
type volcanism from north to south is indicated by the occurrence of the older volcanics
of this formation on the northern part of the northWE!sternplateau. Alajae Formation
makes the bulk of the volcanic succession on both tt-e northwestern and southeastern
plateaus. On the northwestern plateau the Alajae Formation rests conformably on the

50
 I

Aiba Basalts (P3a) but in some places (e.g. Kassem Gorge, Mugher Canyon and in
most outcrops on the southeastern plateau) it directly overlies on the Mesozoic
sediments.The Alajae Formation contains basalts transitional to tholeiitic in nature and
an increase in alkalinity is observed in the younger members of the formation. Thus
the Mio.cene members of the Alajae Formation are more alkaline and are associated
with sub-alkaline acidic members.

4.8 Tarmaber Gussa and Tarmaber-Meaezez Formations (PNtb and Ntb

Tarmaber Formation represents Oligocene to Miocene basaltic shield volcanism

on the northwestern and southeastern plateaus. The central type Tarmaber Formation
basaltic volcanism was followed by fissural eruptions particularly along the
escarpments of northwestern and southeastern plateaus. Basalts of the Tarmaber
Formation in contrast to the tholeiitic and mildly alkaline nature of the earlier flood
basalts typically have an alkaline affinity. On the northwestern plateau, the Tarmaber
shield volcanoes become progressively younger from north to south.

The classification Tarmaber Gussa Formation (PNtb) for the shield volcanoes of
the northern Ethiopian plateau with an absolute age range of 26 to 16 Ma and the
name Tarmaber Megezez Formation (Ntb) for the younger shield volcanoes with an
absolute age range from 16 to 13 Ma in the southern part of the northwestern plateau
and the southeastern plateau has been ~idely used and the latter is believed to mark
the intiation of rifting of the Main Ethiopian Rift (Kazmin, 1979 and references cited
therein). The upper age limit of the Tarmaber-Megezez Formation (Ntb) is lowered to 7
to 8. Ma since the large basaltic center of Arba Gugu with similar alkaline affinity is
considered to be the youngest episode of Tarmaber type volcanism. Other dominantly
basaltic units erupted within the age intervals frol1) 14 to 10 Ma (Anchar basalts of-.
Kazmin and Berhe, 1981) mapped on the eastern escarpments of the MER and
southern Afar and Miocene basaltic volcanism in western Ethiopia with an age range of
9 to 10 Ma (Upper aphyric basalt of Berhe et aI., 1987) are also considered with the
Tarmaber-Megezez Formation (Ntb) on chronological grounds.

51

- -
:'1
~
--- -- -

4.9Adw~

The Adwa Formation (Nad) consists of alkaline!volcanics and plugs which have
penetrated the Trap Series basalts of the area (Aiba Basalts, P3a). Blanford (1870) first
noted and considered the Adwa Formation separately from the Trap Series since then
the Adwa-Senafe area was considered as the type locality for Adwa Formation (Plugs)
(Garland, 1980). The Adwa Formation is composed of pale colored, fine grained lavas
and plugs which are of alkaline trachytic and phonolitic composition. The alkaline
plugs form a youthful and peaked topography with flow structure, columnar jointing,
concentric exfoliation and commonly form mountains of bare rock. The plateau from
which they rise is about 2,400 m a.s.1..and one of the highest peaks of the plugs
reaches 3,014 m a.s.1. In the wider age range between Oligocene and Miocene, similar
trachyte and phonolite plugs were mapped in many parts of the northwestern plateau
(e.g. Adis Zerhen-Gondar) and southwestern Ethiopia (Davidson, 1983) and are
considered analogous to Adwa Formation plugs (Nad) on the map.

4.10 Teltele and Surma Basalts (Nts)

Teitele and Surma Basalts (Nts) were mapped in southwestern Ethiopia

(Davidson, 1983) and represent the youngest pre-rift food basalt volcanism in the area.
The Teltele basalts lie unconformably on the crystalline basement, or are separated
from the basement by variable thickness of varicolored clastic sediments. Other
stratigraphically higher basalts and felsic lavas (as young as Early Pliocene) mapped in
the type area are here considered analogous to TeltE!leBasalts. The Turkana-Teltele
fissural basalts of Merla et al. (1973) which cover the plain further to the east and cross
the international border with Kenya to the south are considered to be correlable with
the Teltele Basalts.

The type locality of the Surma Basalts is furthE!rto the west on the international
boundary with Sudan. The Surma Basalts overlie older pre-rift volcanic successions
(Jima Volcanics; Pjb I Pjr). The Teltele and Surma basalts are of Early Miocene age
with reported KIAr ages between 21.2 and 18.2 Ma (Davidson, 1983).

52
 --

4.9 Mwa Formation(Nadl

The Adwa Formation (Nad) consists of alkaline volcanics and plugs which have
penetrated the Trap Series basalts of the area (Aiba Basalts, P3a). Blanford (1870) first
noted and considered the Adwa Formation separately from the Trap Series since then
the Adwa-Senafe area was considered as the type locality for Adwa Formation (Plugs)
(Garland, 1980). The Adwa Formation is composed of pale colored, fine grained lavas
and plugs which are of alkaline trachytic and phonolitic composition. The alkaline
plugs form a youthful and peaked topography with flow structure, columnar jointing,
concentric exfoliation and commonly form mountains of bare rock. The plateau from
which they rise is about 2,400 m a.s.1..and one of the highest peaks of the plugs
reaches 3,014 m a.s.1. In the wider age range between Oligocene and Miocene, similar
trachyte and phonolite plugs were mapped in many parts of the northwestern plateau
(e.g. Adis Zemen-Gondar) and southwestern Ethiopia (Davidson, 1983) and are
considered analogous to Adwa Formation plugs (Nad) on the map.

4.10 Teltele and Surma Basalts (Nts)

Teitele and Surma Basalts (Nts) were mapped in southwestern Ethiopia

(Davidson, 1983) and represent the youngest pre-rift flood basalt volcanism in the area.
The Teltele basalts lie unconformably on the crystalline basement, or are separated
from the basement by variable thickness of varicolored clastic sediments. Other
stratigraphically higher basalts and felsic lavas (as young as Early Pliocene) mapped in
the type area are here considered analogous to Teltele Basalts. The Turkana-Teltele
fissural basalts of Merla et al. (1973) which cover the plain further to the east and cross
the international border with Kenya to the south are considered to be correlable with
the Teltele Basalts.

The type locality of the Surma Basalts is further to the west on the international
boundary with Sudan. The Surma Basalts overlil~ older pre-rift volcanic successions
(Jima Volcanics; Pjb I Pjr). The Teltele and Surma basalts are of Early Miocene age
with reported KIAr ages between 21.2 and 18.2 Ma (Davidson, 1983).

52
4.11 Mabla and Arba Guracha Formations (Nmr)

Middle Miocene felsic volcanism is confined to the margins of Afar and northern
part of the Main Ethiopian Rift. There were probably several centers in these areas
which produced thick sequences of ignimbrite and rhyolite flows and domes. Rhyolite
flows and domes and ignimbrites of slightly commendetic composition with rare
intercalations of basaltic flows, pumice and cinerites were mapped along the margins of
central and southern Afar as Mabla Rhyolites (CNR-CNRS, 1975). In the Danakil Horst
the rhyolites rest unconformably emthe Adolie Basalts (Varet, 1978) and are overlain
by Dalaha Basalts (Ndb) with a sharp unconformity. The absolute age range of the
Mabla rhyolites is from 14.2 to 9.7 Ma. (Varet op cit.).

On the southeastern escarpment of Afar and the eastern escarpment of the

northern MER (Nazret and Dire Dawa map sheets) 200 meters thick crystal rich welded
tuffs are exposed overlain directly by the volcanics of the Nazret Group. This unit was
named as the Arba Guracha Silicics and has an absolute K/Ar age of 14 tQ 10 Ma.
(Berhe, 1979). The Arba Guracha Silicics pinch out away from the type area and are
replaced and/or overlain by basalts of the Tarmaber Formation. The Mabla Rhyolites
and Arba Guracha Silicics are now considered analogous because of their similarity in
age, lithology and occurrence.

4.12 Dalaha Formation (Ndb)

The Dalaha Formation (Nclb) consists of fissural flows of basalts and hawaiites,
with some intercalated detrital and lacustrine sediments, rhyolite flows and pyroclastics
near the upper part. The Dalaha Formation is well developed in the neighboring
Djibouti and Northern and Central Afar attaining a thickness of up to 800 m. The
Dalaha Formation was given an absolute K/Ar .age of 8.6 Ma (Varet, 1978). The
basalts of Dalaha Formation are transitional basalts ranging from rare picritic type to
more frequent iron rich varieties (ferrobasalts).

53

--- -
-- ---- -- ----

Trachytes with subordinate basalts forming shield volcanoes at the Tulu Wollel
and Sayi areas in western Ethiopia formed during the Late Miocene are named as the
Tulu Wollel Trachytes (Ntt). The Tulu Wollel Trachytes overlie the Upper Aphyric
Basalts of Berhe et al. (1987) which on this map are correlated with Tarmaber-Megezez
Formation (Ntb) which form the base of the shield volcanoes. An absolute KIAr age of
ca. 8 Ma. was given to the Tulu Wollel Trachytes (BHrhe et aI., 1987). Trachytic and
phonolitic plugs of probably the same age occur in association with this formation.

4.14 Afar Series (Na)

A thick succession of stratified flood basalts and intercalated alkaline to

peralkciline felsics (rhyolite flows, domes and ignimbrites) covering about 2/3 of the
floor of the Afar Depression, is named as the Afar Stratoid Series (CNR-CNRS, 1975)
and here referred to as the Afar Series. In the Centrellpart of the Afar Depression the
unit attains a thickness in the range of 500 to 1500 mE~terswith a single flow varying in
thickness form 1 to 6 rneters (Varet, 1978). The basalts are frequently porphyritic,
vesicular and display rearly perfect columnar jointing. The ratio of the basalts to the
felsic rocks is 3:2. The basalts are transitional type but show a distinctive tholeiitic
tendency. The tholeiitic nature of the basalts is specially clear on the upper part of the
series which is separated from the lower part by an unconformity and the upper unit
gave an absolute KIAr ages between 4.5 and 0.37 Ma (Barberi et aI., 1975). The lower
flows of. the Afar series are 8 Ma and even older ages were proposed (Kuntz et aI.,
1975; Barberi et aI., 1975). Chemically, the basalts of the Afar Series resemble those
of the axial ranges and have been regarded as a proto-oceanic crust created in the
course of spreading during the last 4 million years (Barberi et aI., 1975).

4.15 Nazret Series (Nn)

The name Nazret Series was given to a thick succession of welded ignimbrites
with fiamme, pumice, ash and rhyolite flows and domes with rare intercalations of
basalt flows which occur in the MER, rift margins and adjacent plateaus (Meyer et al. I

1978). In the rift proper the Nazret Series attains a thicknessof up to 200 to 250

54
meters and tend to thin out on the 13scarpments.On the plateau margins a thickness of
1 to 30 meters was reported at many localities. Ignimbrites of the Nazret Series are
considered to be products of eruptions mainly from marginal centers in the rift
(Morbedelli et aI., 1973). In composition the ignimbrites are sub-alkaline rhyolites and
trachytes with rare peralkaline varieties. An age range of 9 to 3 Ma has been given to
the Nazret Series on the basis of its relation to the Mio-Pliocene lacustrine sediments
of the Chorora Formation and some absolute K/Ar age determinations (Tiercelin et aI.,
1980; Kazmin and Berhe, 1978).

4.16 Danakil Group (Red Series ) (!\Irs)

The oldest sediments found within the Danakil Depression are represented by a
detrital formation named as the Danakil Group (Red Series) (Garland, 1972; CNR-
CNRS, 1973). Sediments of the Danakil Group (Nrs) crop out only in two parallel
bands along the margins of the Danakil Depression. The formation consists of several
hundred meters of conglomerate, sand, sandstones and red, green or multicolored
clays, with interbedded basaltic lavas and acidic intrusions with some marine beds
locally present. The Danakil Group lies unconformably on the Mesozoic limestones
and sandstones or directly on the epi-metamorphic basement that constitute the foot of
the Ethiopian escarpment and the Danakil Alps. K/Ar dates for interbedded basalts at
the base and top of the Red Series gave absolute ages of 24 and 5.4 Ma respectively
giving the series an Early MiocenE~-Plioceneage (Tiercelin et aI., 1980 and references
cited therein). This indicates that the Danakil Depression was already in existence in
the Early Miocene. Sandstone and Conglomerate which form a major part of the Red
Series represent alluvial fan sediments deposited by rivers issuing from the
escarpments, and pass laterally into lacustrine and marine clays with associated
gypsum, marine limestone and subaqueous lavas. Tectonic events are the controlling
factors of this coarse detrital sedimentation, and appear to have continued until 5 Ma,
which is the upper age limit of the Red Series.

55
 ----

Outcrops of sediments found along the southeastern Ethiopian escarpment

forming a band between 40°15" and 41° E (Awash Station area) were named as the
Chorora Formation (Tiercelin et aI., 1980). ThH Chorora Formation consists of
essentially ash layers with rare intercalations of diatomite at the base. The diatomite
becomes more frequent in the upper part of the sequence. KIAr ages of the volcanics
above and below the formation has given ages between 9.05 and 10.5 Ma (Late
Miocene). The Chorora Formation, eventhough not shown on the map represents the
earliest continental (lacustrine) sedimentation in the southern Afar.

4.17 Chilalo Formation (Nc and Neb)

A group of Early Pliocene shield volcanic complexes which developed on both

sides of the rift shol,Jldersand margins of Main Ethiopian Rift were named as the
Chilalo Formation (Kazmin and Berhe, 1981). On the eastern escarpment of the MER,
complex central volcanoes like Chilalo, Badda, Kaka, Enqoulo, and along the eastern
rift margin of the MER and southern margins of the Afar centers like Gara Gumbi,
Asebot, Afdem, Borate, Gara Adi and other.smaller centers (Gara Gumbi Trachyte) are
considered with the Chilalo Formation. Along the western margin centers such as
Yerer, Wechecha, Furi, Gash Megel and their satE~llitescenters represent the latest
pulse of such felsic volcanism along the western escarpment.

In a number of the complex shield volcanoes including Chilalo, Badda and

Kubsa two volcanic units (the lower, Nc and upper Ncb units) were distinguished by
Kazmin and Berhe (1981). The lower unit (Nc) comprises intercalation of peralkaline
ignimbrites and trachytes which show clear flow structures. The dominant rock type is
a stron'gly porphyritic dark grey trachyte with sanidine phenocrysts. Lava flows of the

predominantly trachytic volcanoes interfinger with tt'e upper part of the Nazret Series
(Nn) and in fact constitute part of the series. The upper unit (Ncb) which commonly
forms the top part of the shield volcanoes is invariably represented by fresh flows of
porphyritic alkaline basalts.

56
 In some of the volcanoes like Daro on the eastern shoulder of the Main
Ethiopian Rift only the lower unit is present and in others like Wechecha and Yerer the
mafic products are scarce and a cle~arsubdivision is not apparent and are shown as the
lower unit (Nc). KIAr ages on most of these volcanoes range from 8 to 4 Ma (Kazmin et
aI., 1980b, Chernet, 1995). A rela::ivelyyoung age of 1.4 Ma has been reported by Di
Paola (1976) on a mugeritic flow on the western slope of Mt. Chilalo which implies that
some of the volcani.q activity has probably continued into the Pleistocene. Recent
geochronologic works based on the geologic mapping of the Dodola Sheet in
southeastern Ethiopia (Berhe et aI., 1987) has sugested that some of the shield
volcanoes in Bale are probably correlable to this unit.

4.18 Mursi and Bofa Basalts (Nb)

Late Pliocene (4 to 1.6 Ma,)flood basalt volcanism is widespread in the Main

Ethiopian Rift and other related rifts. The Pliocene basalts were known by different
names in different localities; Wele!nchiti Basalts (Meyer et aI., 1975), Bishoftu Basalts
and rhyolites (Zanettin and Justin Visentin, 1974), Old rift floor basalts (U.N
Geothermal Project, 1978). ThH name Bofa Basalts was coined by the E.I.G.S.
(Kazmin et aI., 1980b) to all the Pliocene rift floor Basalts. The Bofa Basalts are well
developed in the northern and central part of the Main Ethiopian Rift forming a wedge
between the Nazret Series (Nn) and Dino Formation and a lower age limit of 3.5 Ma
has been reported by Kazmin et aI., (1980b). The Bofa Basalts are flood basalts mostly
aphyric, locally vesicular and fresh with several flows separated by scoracious
horizons. In most outcrops the Bofa Basalts have a thickness of about 80 meters,
however, deep drilling for geothermal energy exploration at the Aluto-Langeno
,.
Geothermal Prospect has shown that the Bofa Basalts or a contemporaneous basaltic
unit has a thickness in excess of 500 meters in many of the wells. This attests for the
presence of an important Pliocene flood basalt volcanism in the central Main Ethiopian
Rift, which is concealed by the Quaternary pyroclastic volcanic products and
continental sediments.

57

- - - - --- - - -
 - - - - --

Other Pliocene basalts of Turkana Rift namE3das the Mursi Basalts have a
similar KfAr age of 4.2. Ma (Davidson, 1983). The Mursi Basalts consist of a relatively
few, thin, columnar flows of basalt and in most sections have a total thickness of less
than 100 meters. The basalts rest on a tuffaceous volcano-sedimentary sequence, and
field evidence shows that the basalts underlie much of the Middle Omo plain which is
covered by the Omo Group Sediments (Davidson, 1983). The Mursi and. Bofa Basalts
(Nb) are here considered analogous because of their similar age, occurrence and
predominantly transitional! alkaline nature.

5. LATE TERTIARY TO QUATERNARY VOLCANIC AND SEDIMENTARY ROCKS

5.1 ~Lacustrine and Fluvial Sediments (NQ)

All continental sediments of Plio-Pleistocene age are shown on the map as a

single unit. Many studies of considerable detaii have been done on some of these
sediments in search for early hominid and mammalian remains. Among the well-
studied sediments of this unit are the Hadar Formation and the Omo Group sediments.

(a) Hadar Formation

The Hadar Formation was mapped along the tributaries of Awash River near the
western escarpment of southern and central Afar. ThE!formation has been subdivided
into four members (Taieb and Tiercelin, 1979) and ranges in thickness from 30 to 200
meters. The sediments are characterized by cla~'s, siltstones, sandstones and
conglomerates of lacustrine, deltiac and fluviatile facies. Several tuff horizons and one
fissural basalt flow are interbedded in the formation. Radiometric dates and
paleomagnetic data indicate that the age of the Hadar Formation to be in the range of
3.1 to 2.6 Ma (Tiercelin et aI., 1980). The development of the Hadar Basin has been
controlled constantly by the evolution of the volcanic phenomena in the area to the east
and by the tectonic development of the escarpments to the west. In the eastern part of
the Afar Depression areas of sedimentation during this period are restricted, however,
analogous units of clayey and diatomaceous deposits and conglomeratic sequences
are found in many areas associated with Pliocene lavas of the Afar Series (Na) and
Dalaha Basalts (Tiercelin, op cit.).

sa
(b) Omo Group
The Omo Group sediments are also Plio-Pleistocene continental deposits which
cover most parts of the Kibish, Omo and Usno branches of the Turkana Rift. According
to Davidson (1983), four formations, Mursi, Nkalabong, Usno and Shungura comprise
the Omo Group Sediments. The sediments of the Mursi Formation lie unconformably
on a tilted pre-rift rhyolite of probably Miocene age and is composed of about 150
meters of clays, silts and sands with subordinate tuff and pebble beds. These
sediments are conformably overlain by the Mursi Basalts which are shown as Mursi and
Bofa Formation (Nb) on the map. The Nkalabong Formation overlies the Mursi Basalts
and is about 90 meters thick gray-brown fluvial clastic sediments, eolian sands, water
lain tuff and tuffaceous sediments. The Usno Formation comprises of about 200
meters thick of alternating, fluvial, lacustrine sediments with the tuffaceous horizons
and a single basalt flow (dated 3.31 Ma, Davidson, 1983) at the bottom of the section.
The Shungura Formation being the youngest of the Omo Group sediments (between 3
and 1.3 Ma) includes at least 750 meters of brown gray and buff colored clays, silt,
sand, gravel, tuff, marl and fresh water limestone deposited from a fluctuating fluvial
an9 lacustrine cycles. Other Plio-Pleistocene sediments in southwestern Ethiopian e.g.
lIeret sediments (Davidson, 1983) alrealso included in this unit.

5.2 Bishoftu Formation (NQtb)

Plio-Pleistocene basalt flows associated with numerous well preserved scoria

cones found on the escarpment of the MER south of Addis Ababa with a lower age limit
2 to 2.8 Ma were given the name ElishoftuBasalts (Zanettin and Justin Visentin, 1974;
Kazmin et aI., 1980 and referenCE!Scited therein). Similar basalts near the eastern
escarpment of the northern part of the MER were also correlated with this unit. The
Bishoftu Basalts are characteristically alkaline and represent Plio-Pleistocene
commonly marginal basaltic volcanism controlled by transversal structures in the MER
and Afar Depression, which makes them distinct from contemporaneous basalts of Afar
(Na) and the MER Bofa Basalts (Nb).

59

-- - - -
6. QUATERNARY VOLCANIC AND SEDIMENTARY ROCKS

6.1 Dino Formation (Qd)

In the Main Ethiopian Rift the Bofa Basalts (Nb) and the Nazret Series (Nn) are,
in most places, overlain by green and gray ignimbntes with well developed fumme and
associated unwelded pyroclastics and waterlain pyroclastics with occasional
intercalated lacustrine beds and aphync basalts which have a maximum reported
thickness of 50 meters were named as the Dino Formation (Kazmin and Berhe, 1978 &
1980). In the Awash Gorge an ignimbrite member of the Dino Formation (Qd) was
isotopically dated to be 1.5 Ma old (Kazmin and Berhe, 1978). The pyroclastics of the
Dino Formation may have sources frolT)axial felsic volcaic eruptions complexes such
as the partly eroded volcanc;>known as Tinish Fantale and/or ealier of the other axial
center(Qr). The felsic lava of the Dino Formation an3 peralkaline in composition and
Kazmin et aI., (1980b,c) have observed that the ignimbrite members are not confined
only to the rift floor but are extensively developed on the escarpments.

6.2 Ghinir Formation (Qq)

The Ghinir Forrnation was mapped on the southeastern plateau by Meral et al.
(1973) to represent the Quaternary rhyolite volcanism in the Ghinir area (Bale Region).
The Ghinir Formation is mainly made up of rhyolites with subordinate basalts.

6.3 Rhyolitic Volcanic Complexes (Qr)

The Quaternary central volcanic complexes which are situated along the axial
zone~ of the Main Ethiopian Rift (Wonji Fault Belt) and Afar have produced peralkaline
lavas and pyroclastics. On most of the volcanoes recent stages of activity are marked
by obsidian flows, pumice, ignimbrite, tuff and scoriaceous basalt eruptions. However,
most of the basalt flows have fissural orgin from later fractures of the Wonji Fault Belt
which in some instances dissect even the volcanoes. The products of the volcanoes
range from trachytes to pera~kaline rhyolites (pantellerites and commendites). The
oldest reported KIAr age from the central volcanoes of the Wonji Fault Belt are, from
Bosete Volcano is 1.6 Ma (Morbeddelli et a!., 1975). Some strata volcanoes in the Afar

60
 Depression (Varet, 1978) situated along the margins of the ,depressior'1!1ave erupteq
felsic lava (trachytes - rhyolites) and pyroclastics similar,to tli:t(3centers of the, VVonji
Fault Belt and are considered as the same unit on t~ map. , ,>,;. 9:111, "":)""":5

6.4 Quaternary Plateau Basalts (Qb1)

.Quaternary alkaline ~asalts and trachytes were ~r~pted. alq,l3~bpreexisting

structures on the northwestern and sOtJthe8§tern plateaux. Although, [1qt:;.q~t~d.tlr~O~ir
relatively unmodified geomorphotogical feat~res such as th~.(prevaiem;e !~f prol1)jnern
cinder cones and small collapse cratefr~lin.,particularly iJreq;~giQn of heavy [~ir;tfall al)d

perennial streams indicate their recent age" ,Alkaline.bca5.E3ltsarJdtr~~twti§~aYe§ p[evaj)

in the Tana Graben and young trachyte flows-on the Bat4t'M~ntaiJ) @OO§5I@te i§~~~1t,~
in Bale region (Kazmin, 1979; Merla et aI., 1973) all'bf:~J~ngt~fthi&I.:!Ii1i~=dTieldeviq~nce
suggests a Pleistocene age to aJl.thes~!(ocks. Volcanic!c~f1es and flpw!5...9J.:scqriaceol;ls
basalts are well preserved in the lak~j1F~mca
Graber).:. .,' JIBl ' .: ,- J.

The other younger analogous 'unit is the relati',}§!y fresh: Tepi Basalts;lprodueed
by::Central type eruption in sOUthwestern Ethiopia with a 'HOlbcene 28ge (Davidson,
1983) and is considered tb'be an analogO'us2Grlit.The~af{!}U~t~A1Myr6asalt.flow§28(-e
characteristically alkaline and may represent the final pulsej~Jba~aHjC'lvOfc§aPtiSmei!fP1
the Ethiopian plateau. . .00 .0) eJn9mlDe2 V1Srl''''.78UO
~ - -- a.e

6.5 Quatern8fV Basa~s(Qb(a:);,Qt~ j~ lerlio 10 2Jnemlbe2 V1S[l(;L JO

Allttle Qu~ternarv basalf$r{)(-1t1b~ERcandjAfa~'oe~ss§fbRwWref1i\are 'compd§{ffl

- 'df'bas~H
flowS:gcoria con~~ancYf~~~tffB¥lyalliclast1t~§~~r~~ewri ::as'1tfe1%~~
;{tfi~im'~i ,','Pfevio8s ~f:>etrolo§fca'e~ d1Wmtca'p%'tUdi~gJ t1aveJ1enabT@\.'R
t@n~el::tt113
r~followingcgros~subdivisidris. ~,q5:"~' 'lUGOiT' elf: 2bed eni112UJb! eriT .(08e I' ,b\{oU
f:i~':
k.. .. ~s_ c (aaer' ')f;cM c; ['"' iOJ::;/' e1imo:tEiC bns Isils:tsm 2UOS1S::;lsJ
(a) TranS1tlonal type (Qb(a), Qbt)
,

:B~s~lt~i ,,~J the a~ic~L,tEJ!1~~W

6Qf ilf\J~J rWic~. ~Hr ~ujl~u3koQp'j ~heeE~\?~j~~st~rly

extensioq faults are transiti9nca!. ,,~~~alts. Tw~ '-'e~~§!~c;Ef~!

q of ~~~eJ~~gt~p~;.,~re
distinguishable io most places, tt'e first is a ti~~~r~1stage
"
with eruptioQ,§9f
,Jc:.;:.::!t.
basalts of
transitional composition (Qb(a)) and the second stage was a central type eruption

61
which produced the differentiates of basalts through intermediate iron-rich varieties
(ferro-basalts, hawaiites, mugearites and dark quartz rich trachytes) to a very limited
amounts of alkaline and peralkaline silicics (Qbt) (Varet, 1978).

(b) Alkaline Olivine Basalt (Qb(b))

'IiRI~i~tocene to H9JogenefissuraLIDasaitvolcanism in the Main Ethiopian Rift are

mainly concentrated al009 th@-WFB. :fhe basalts are clearly controlled by extensional
fr;aQtl1lres
V'itbl~hains of sCQf;i82§ones
allign~p along fractures and generally displaying I
freshl~a-$t)ff~ces.1HyalPGlasljtep,phreatic and phreatomagmatic explosion craters (like
those q1ear,Del:i>r~12:eit)taf@
common in many areas wher~,these basalts,were mapped.
M0St1Ji ther~alts of:-.>thi$J~l[1it
in,the Main Ethiopian H~ft, Afar Depression and other
retate~hrift$11fi11Etl;1iopi~rarej
~~itional or alkaline 'in nature except some of the recent

basalts' par1i~larlY;I18'k>Qg;)the
Wonji Fault Belt whid;Ls!3Pw,AholeiiJictendencies like
those of the axial ranges in Afar. However basalts)pfJhe transverse volcanic ranges of
~far
u9')l)
(mainl~
)01q
~JPapak!1
"II,_o,, J
Ho]:st.th"at
I T 1:'-::1 ,
are controlle,d by east - northeasterly
,
lineaments) are
alkaline b~salts and inl roanYrl places, contain ultramafic xenoliths. Similar alkaline
.n02bIV60) 9Q6 . ') r ., G I ii'll "

~~~aJt~~~~~~R9nt~in ~J~~P)I~ric ,~roliths are also .found in the M~yale-Mega area and
are include d with this unit.
: to . J'I I6
~
no (r' lS.J 0..
1
8
6.6 Quaternary Sediments lQ. Qp. Qh)

Quaternary Sediments of different Q~igjn~itf~i~!. lacustrine, eolian, eluvial,

marine) are widelv spread all o(verEthiopia] In the Main Eth iopian Rift the Quaternary
D-:J20qmo.J91sn.Jr,,, 'I'; '19 " j
l:-r. "). .~
. .f ,(\ .

SeQiments are mostlv of lacustrine origin. Lacustrine beds are interbedded with Plio-
r,u ems 3 en! ~s rlwOi1? 916 ,Co , .

Pleistqgene("\;pvrocla~tics
en! J.)rn
iDjthe ,lakes' region and ,on the rift shoulders (Mohr, 1966;
1::>9106,!' gl, .", ? l.> ; .It

Lloyd, 1980). The lacostrine beds are mostly redeposit~d volcanic s~nds, tuff wi~
.
calcareous material and diatomite. According to Mohr (1966) at the beginning of the
Quaternary an ancestral lake which was almost certainly continuous from the Abaya -
Ct}MAfuLakes 1Sjtne-'~b1Jtn
to the Awash basin to the north existed until it shrinked to
smaller ones by lat~-:Pleistocene tectonic movements. Pleistocene-Hblocene parts of
':A.faris represented by a number of sheet flood terraces mainly composed of salts,
Ii

62
sand, gravel, gypsiferous and fossiliferous limestone of lacustrine origin which are
found in the Lakes Aferera and Assai area.

Marine Pleistocene existed only in the northern part of the Afar Depression
(Danakil Depression) and the Red Sea Coast. In the northern Afar marine deposits of
the Enkafla Beds (White Series) (Brinckmann and Kursten, 1968) and part of the salt
formations of Dallol are of Quaternary age. Along the Sudan bord8r also large areas
are covered by undifferentiated fluvial outwash. The thickness of these sediments of
undifferentiated continental origin (gravel, sand, silt and clay) reachs 10 to 20 meters at
places increasing towards the plateau escarpments to the East (Kazmin, 1972).
iT'

.I' ...J
~ -:,'
_.

, I .J

63
 ---- - - --

v. MINERAL OCCURRENCES AND ECONOMIC RESOURCES

1. Introduction

Systema~ic mineral exploration conducted in the past twenty years by the

Ethiopian Institute of Geological Surveys (EIGS), United NationsrDevelopment Project
(1972, 1973), Metal Mining Agency qf 'Japan (1972), Omo River.Project--(1976-83),
Adola Gold Exploration Project (1979-81) and others have shown that Ethiopia has a
I

good potential for the development of a wide range of mineral resources. / A wide
variety of mineral and construction material deposits have.been identified (Fig. 1). Gold
remains by far the most enciting and promising resource. Other proven economic
metallic mineral deposits include those of copper, zinc, nickel, tantalum and platinum.
Economic deposits of industrial minerals in the country include rock-salt, potash,
phosphate, soda ash, feldspar, diatomite, bentonite, kaolin, sulphur and lime. Proven
reserves of hydrocarbons such as natural gas,.oil, oil-shale and lignite have also been
found in many parts of the country. Construction materials-such as marble, granite,
etc. and raw materials in cement and aggregate manufacturing are also found in many
suitable locations.

~. METALLIC MINERALS

2.1 Base metals

The most promising region for base metal mineral prospecting is the low grade
belt in the north, west and south of the country. All the known metallic mineral

I occurrences are situated in tile low grade metamorphic volcano-sedimentary

succession and associated intrusives, but the possibility of discovering economic
mineral deposit§ in the high-grade metamorphic terranes cannot be ruled out (Fig. 1).
. 1
Exploration during the late sixties and early seventil3shas defined several prospects in
Ethiopia rarticularly in Wollega, Sidamon, Tigray and Bale regions. Some of the newly
def;'led prospects include:

1. Tsehafi Amba sulfide deposit which i\located about 60 km southeast of Aksum, is a

rrlassive su:~npje copper deposit.

64
 /
2. Base metal showings in the west, particularly in Wollega where base metals are
found associated with magnetite, in a copper-gold prospect, and under a gossan
cover.
3. Iron ore occurrences in the Gulliso-Yubdo and Bikilal areas, in Wollega region and
at Melka Arba in Bale region. The iron ore reserves at Bikilal and Melka Arba are
still under investigations, preliminary estimates of the Bikilal iron ore has indicatea
that there is a reserve of over 20,000,000 tons of ore.
2.2 Precious Metals

Geologically, the most promising regions for gold and other metallic minerals are
those terranes underlain by Precambrian rocks, primarily along the volcanogenic belts
of Proterozoic age (Fig. 1).; Presently known gold deposits, mostly placer, are largely
.

found around the Adola gold field in Sidamo region where mining have been conducted
for over forty years. The primary deposit has been discovered at Lega Dembi and
nearby Sakaro, Wollena and Korkoro and the potential for discovery of additional
economic primary deposits is high. Placer gold has been mined for centuries in
Wollega and Kefa regions by the local people. Primary deposits have also been
identified in Wollega. The geological environment in the other Precambrian terranes in
northern Ethiopia (eg. Tigray) also have excellent potential for primary gold
occurrences.

Platinum deposits are worked on a. small scale at Yubdo (Wollega). Placer

platinum deposits at Yubdo have been worked on and off for the last fifty years;
how~ver, in additidn to being low grade (0.3 to 0:1 gm/m3),the platinum is fine grained
posing recovery problems.

In addition, tantalite (Ta20s)has been discovered in pegmatites at Kenticha in

Sidamo. Occurrences of beryllium, lithium and niobium as well as small lenses of
chromite have been noted in this area. There are encour~qing indications of finding
other economically exploitable precious metals deposits in other parts of the country
Iyet not investigated in detail.

65

-- - - -
3. NON METALLIC MINERALS

3.1 Industrial Minerals

Considerable potential also exists for industrial mineral mining development in

Ethiopia (Fig. 1). Soda ash (Na2Co3)is found in sodic lake brines of Lakes Abiyata and
Shala, in the central Main Ethiopian Rift (Shewa region). Resources of soda ash in
these two lakes are sufficiently enough to support a major mining operation. A pilot
plant is presently" under development with 20,000 tons / year of soda ash being
currently produced from Lake Abiyata.

Potash deposits in the Danakil Depression near Dallol, have been known since
the turn of the century. The potash-bearing strata consists of three units, they are
sylvite on top and kainite towards the base, with carnalite throughout the strata. A total
reserve of 172,897,000 tons of potash has been estimated.

Other major industrial minerals, which could offer a possibility for development
for local consumption are bentonite
..
and diatomite. Sufficient tonnage of quality
material for the filler industry as well as for usa in filters and for other specialized
industrial requirements (binders, bricks, insulating materials) is available. Bentonite
occurs in lagoonal/lacustrine deposits in the rift valley. In addition, a number of
diatomite deposits have been identified in a similar geological setting as the bentonite.

.
Ceramic raw materials like the Bomba Woha kaolin deposit has been discovered
north of Kibre Mengist in Sidamo region with a proven reserve estimated to be ~

250,000 tons. Pegmatites at Kenticha have also been examined as possible source of
feldspar and quartz. Testing has shown that both these minerals have a quaflty
suitable for use "in the ,ceramic and glass industry: Suitable raw materials for sheet
glass industry such as silica sand, dolomite, feldspar, limestone and soda ash are also
in ample supply.

Parts of the sedimentary basin of Ogaden in eastern Ethiopia, and some

magmatic rock units in central Wollega, (Bikilal); Bale, (Melka Arba); and Sidamo
regions hOavebeen investigated as a source for a phosphate (P20S)fertilizer. In the

66
Bikilal area (Wollega region), phosphate occurs in the form of apatite within a gabbro-
hornblendite complex several kilometers in length, with an average grade of 4 to 5%
P20S.

Sulphur deposits have been mined in the past between 1955 and 1953 in the
Dofan area, at Dallol and 20 km north of Dallol. Deposits of sulphur from fumaroles and
solfataras are common in the Danakil Depression. Reserves of 12,000 m3 of sulphur
rich rock materials have been reported for the sulphur field near the young Kebrit Ale
volcano. Semi precious stones peridote and garnet are found in the pegmatite I
ultramafic complexes of Sidamo region. The latter could possibly support cottage scale
industry.

3.2 Building (Construction) Materials

There is no shortage of rock of various types suitable as dimension stones or

crushed aggregate within Ethiopia. Construction materials such as limestone, gypsum
and clays for cement, and basalt and other volcanic rocks and limestone for 'crushed
stone are in ample supply. Deposits of pure white as well as variegated rose, green
and gray marble near Mendi, Wollega; and rose, b'lack and pale colored granite near
Harar (Hararghe region) are being developed for use as decorative stones for export
and local consumption. Sheetwash; and stream deposits in areas underlain by
cry,stallinebasement rocks are sufficiently plentiful to serve all foreseeable local needs.

3.3 Hydrocarbons

Lignite, coal and oil shale deposits within the Tertiary volcanic succession, 50
km east of Jima at places called Delbi and Moye in Iliubabor region, are under
investigation. Other occurrences of lignite within the intertrappean sediments of the
Ethiopian plateau, near Chilga (Gonder), Debre Brehan (Shewa) and Wuchale (Wello)
have been investigated for their calorific value and the feasibility economic recovery.

Petroleum exploration in the Ogaden and Red sea areas indicate that there are
promising prospects for discovery of hydrocarbons. The Calub gas field discovered in

67

- - - -- - ----
 -- ----- ---

the Ogaden area has 76 BillionMetric ton. The feasibility of the development of the
Calub gas field is also under investigations.
3.4 Water and other Resources

Ethiopia has ample water resource~ 'potential for domestic, irrigation,

agroindustrial use and for hydroelectric power generation. There is also an enormous
economic resource related to the hydrothermal systems associated with the recent
volcanicity in parts of the Great East African Rift Valley in Ethiopia. The potential for
developing geothermal power plants, other direct industrial applications and the use of
the hot water such as hot spring resorts in the region is very encouraging. Deep
exploration drilling has proved economic re~erves of geothermal steam in the Aluto-
Langeno Geothermal Prospect in the central Main Ethiopian Rift and the Tendaho
Geothermal Prospect in central Afar. Detailed investigations of some other prospects
in the northern Main Ethiopian Riftand Afar Oepression have indicated the existence of
more important geothermal resources.

68
 -- - - - -- -~----

VI. REFERENCES

A~bate, E. and Sagri, M., 1980. Volcanites of the Ethiopian and Somalian piateaus and Majt>rTectonic
Lines. In: GeodynamicF.volutionof the Afro-Arabian Rift System, Atti dei convegniLincei, v. 47,
p.219-227.

Abera Aguma and Girma Kebede, 1976. Geological Map of Adirametsi Sheet (ND 37-9), 1:250,000
Scale. E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Alemayehu Gudeya, 1989. Preliminary Geological Map of Abu Ra111laSheet (NC 36-4), 1:250,000 Scale.
Unpublished,E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, EthiopIa. .

Almond, D.C., 1984. The Concepts of "Pan-African Episode" and "Mozambique Belt" in Relation to the
Geology of East and Northeast Africa. hi Evolution and Mineralization of the Arabian-Nubian
Shield. ed..Al-shanti, A, Institute of Applied Geology Bulletin, Jeddah.Pergamon Press, p.71-87.

Amenti Abreham, 1984. Preliniinary Geological Map of Gimbi Sheet (NC 36-12), 1:250,000 Scale.
Unpublished,Preliminary Draft, E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Arkin,V., Beyth, M., Dow, D.B., Levitte, D., Tem~sgenHaile and Tsegaye Hailu, 1971. Geological Map.
ofMekele Sheet (ND 37-11), E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Barberi, F., Ferrara, G., Santacroce, R.and Varet, I., 1975. Structural Evolution of the Afar Triple
Junction. In" Afar Depression of Ethiopian" cds. Pilger A and RosIer A,Schweizerbart Sche
Verlag, Stuttgart. p. 38-55.

Barns, S.U., 1976. Geologyand Oil Prospects of Somalia, East Africa. AA.P.G. Bull., 60., p. 389-413.

Beauchamp, 1., 1977. La SeIje Sedimentarieende L'Etlnupie Centrale et Orientale. Thise de Doctrate,
Univ. Claude Bernard, Lyon, France, p 419.

Belay Desta, 1978. Preliminary Regional ~logical Report on the Dodola Area (NB 37-7) 1:250.000
scale. ~Unpublished, - E.I.G .S, Addis AbAbA, EtHiopia.

Belay Desta, 1983. Geological Map of Goba Sheet (NB 37-7),1:250,000 Scale. Preliminary
Draft,E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa. Ethiopia.

Berhe,S.M.and Kazmin, V. 1978. Geological Map of the Nazret Area (NC 37-15) 1:250,000 Scale.
E.I.G.S, Addis 4baba, Ethiopia

Berhe S.M., 1979. Jeological Map oI1be Dire Dawa Sheet (NC 37-12) 1:250,000 Scale. E.I.G.S, Addis
Ababa. Ethiopia.

Berhe, S.M., Belay Desta, Nicoletti,M., and Mengt;sna Tefera, 1987. Geology, Geochronology and
GeOdynamicImplications of the Co;:nozoic Magmatic Province in the West and Southeast Ethiopia.
Journal of the Geological Society. Lond. v.144, p. 213-226.

69

- ----
 -- -- - --- --- -

Beyth, M., 1968-71. GeologicalMap of MekeleArea (ND 37-11), 1:250,000Scale. E.I.G.S, Addis
Ababa, Ethiopia.

Beyth M., 1971. The Geologyof Central and Western Tigray. Ministry of Mines, Draft Report, E.LG.S,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Beyth M., 1973. Correlation of Palaeozoic-MesozoicSediments in Northern Yemen-Tigrai and Northern

Ethiopia. Bull. Am Ass. Petrol. Geo1.57.p.2440-2443.

BIECEP, 1985. Geological Map of the Ogaden Malmaison,I:I,OOO,OOP Scale. Paris, France.

BIECEP, 1982-85. Petroleum Exploration Promotion Project. Hydrocarbon Evaluation. (Bureau D

Etudes IndustriellesEt De CooperationDe L Institut Francais Du Pe-trole).

Bishop, W. W., 1978. Geological Background to Fossil Man. Scottish Academic Press, Edinburgh, P
. 585.

Black, R.,1984. The Pan-African Event in the Geological Framework of Africa. Pangea, 2, p. 6-16.

Blanford, W.T~ 1870. Report on .the Geology of a Portion of Abyssinia. Assoc. J. GeoI.Soc.London,
Q.Jl, v.25, p.401-406.

Budel,J., 1982. Climatic Geomorphology. Translated from: Kilima-Geomorphologie 1977.1 Berlin-7

Stuigart, Princeton UniversityPress, U.S.A,P 445.

Brinckmann, J. and Kursten, M., 1970. Geological Sketch Map ofthe.Danakil Depression.

Cahen,L., Snelling, N.J., Dalhal, J.,and Vail, J.R, 1984. The Geochronologyand Evolution of Africa.
Clarendon Press, Oxford, P 254.

CNR-CNRS, 1972. Geological Map of Centra! ...1d Southern Mar (1:500,000 Scale).

CNR-CNRS - Mar team, 1973. Geology of Northern Afar (Ethiopia). Rev. Geogr. Phys. Geol. Dynam.
v.(2)15, p.443-390.

Chater, A.M., 1971,_The Geology of the Megado area of Southern Ethiopia. Unpublished Ph. D.
. Dissertation, Leeds University,England.

Chernet, T, 1995. Petrological, Geochemical and Geoc~onological Investigation of Volcanism in the

Northern Main Ethiopian Rift - Southern Mar Transition Region. Ph. D. Dissertation, Miamr
,University.,Oxford, OH-45056, USA, P 241.

Clifford, TN., 1970. The Structural Frameworkof Africa. In: Clifford, TN. and Gass LG. (eds) African
Magmatism and Tectonics. Edinburgh, Oliver and Boyd, p. 1-26. .
Dainelli, G. 1943. Geologia dell' Africa Orientale: 4 vols.,Academia d'Italia, Centro Studi A. O. L,Roma.

70
 ./

Davidson, A, ~983. Reconnaissance Geology and Geochemistry of Parts of Illubabor, Kafa, Gemu Gofa
and Sidamo, Ethiopia. E.I.G.S, Bull. No.2, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

de Wit, M.J.and Berg, RJ. and Berg R1977. Nickel, Platinum and Chromium Mineralization at Tulu
Dirnitu,Wollega. Unpublish.ed Report, p 19, E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

de Wit, M.J.and Berg R1977. Chemical and Mineralogical Data of some Platinum Nuggets from Yubdo,
Western Wollega. Unpublished Report, p 4, E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

de Wit, M.J., Jefferey, M., Bergh, H. and,Nicolaysen, L., 1988. Geological Map of Sectors of Gondwana,
Reconstructed to their Disposition of 150 Ma. (l: 10,000,000) Scale. Pubs. Bernard Price Institute
of Geological Reasearch, Univ. ofWiterwatersrand & AAPG.

Dow, D.B., Beyth, M. and Tsegaye Hailu, 1971. Palaeozoic Glacial Rocks Recently Discovered in
Northern Ethiopia. Geol. Mag, 108(l),p.53-60, Great Britain.

Di Paola, G.M., 1972. The Ethiopian Rift Valley Between7° 00' and 8 °40' Lat North: Bull. Volcanol., v.
36, p. 517-560.

ELMICO, 1984. Dallol Potash Project Phase lA Report. EtG.S, v.I, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Engles, J.J., 1966. Mesozoic Stratigraphy of Northern Ethiopia. Mobil Petroleum Ethiopia Inc.

Engel, AE.J., Dixon, T.H. and Stern, R.I., 1980. Late Precambrian Evolution of Afro-Arabian Crust
from Ocean Arc to Craton. ..GeologicalSociety of America. Bull., v.91, p. 699-706.

Fleck, R.I., Greenwood, W.R, Hadley, D.G., Anderson RE., and Schmidt, D.L.,1980. Age and Evolution
of Southern Part of the Arabian Shield. In: Evoluti<;>n
and Mineralization of the Arabian-Nubian
Shied, ed. Al-Shanti,Inst.ofAppl.Geol. Jeddah. Pergamon Press, Oxford, p.1-17.

Furon, R, 1963. Geology of Africa. ~ew York, Oliver and Boy Ltd. Printed in Great Britain by A
Hallam and L.A Stevens., Geologiede L'Afrique. Payot, 1960, Paris.

Gabert, G., 1984. Structural Lithologic Units of Proterozoic Rocks in East Africa, Their Base, Cover and
Mineralization. In: Kalerkx, J. and Michot,J. (eds.),African Geology. Musee Royal de Afrique
Centrale, Terruren, p.11-22.

Garland, C.R, 1972, Explanation of the Geological Map of the Adigrat Sheet (ND 37-2) 1:250,000 Scale.
E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Garland, C.R, 1972, Geological Map of Adigrat Area. 1:250,000 (ND 37-7). E.I.G.S,Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia.

Garland, C.R, 1980. Geology of Adigrat Area: Ministry 9fMines Energy and Water Resources. Memoir
no.l,p51.

71

- -- - ---
 - -

Gass LG.,1977. The Evolution of the Pan-African Crystalline Basement in NE Mrica and Arabia. Journal
of Geological Societyof London, v.134, p. 129-138.

Gebreyohannes Habtezgi, 1984. Stratigraphic Succession of the Upper Second and Third Order
Tributaries ofWabi Shebele River (Hirana-Gelemso-Mechara). Unpublished, p 8, E.LG.S, Addis
Ababa,EthlOpla.

Gebreyohannes Habtezgi, 1989. Facies, Depositional Environment,Diagenesisand Hydrocarbon Potential

of the Jurassic Hamanilei Formation (Carbonate-evaporite Rocks) In Ogaden Basin, Southeast
Ethiopia. UnpublishedM.Sc. Thesis UniversityReading, UK.

GEOSOM 87: 1987. Geologyof Somalia and SurroundingRegions, UNECA-Somali National Univ., p 71
Mogadishu.

Getaneh Assefa, 1980. Stratigraphy and Sedimentation of the Type Gohatsion Formation (Lios-Malm)
Abbay River Basin, Ethiopia. Sinet Ethiopia J.Sci., v.3, n.2 p.87-109.

Getaneh Assefa, 1984. The Mineral Industry of Ethiopia: Present Conditions and Future Prospects.
Journal of African Earth Science,v.3, n.3, p.331-345.

Gibson, LL., 1976. A Review of the Geology,Petrologyand Geochemistry of the Volcano Fantalea. Bull.
Volcano, v.38, p.791-802.

Gilboy, C., 1970. The Geology of the Gariboro Region of Southern Ethiopia,Unpublished Ph.D. Thesis,
Leeds Univ., England. .

Gouin, P.and Mohr, P., 1964. Gravity Traverses in Ethiopian (IQterimReport), Bull. Geophy. Obs. Addis
Ababa, no. 7, p.185-239.

Greitzer, Y., 1970. Stratigraphy, Hydrogeology and Jurassic Ammonites of the Harar and Dire Dawa
Area, Ethiopia, Ph. D.Thesis, Hebrew Univ., Israel.

Hedberg, D.H., 1976. International Stratigraphic Guide: A Guide to Stratigraphic Classification

Terminology and Procedure. John Wiley and Sons, Inc., p 200.

Hepworth, J.V., 1979. Does the MozambiqueOrogenicBelt Continueinto Saudi Arabia In: Evolution and
Mineralization of the Arabian-Nubian Shield. Inst.of App.Geol., Jeddah, v.3, p.39-51.

Howell, C., 1968. Omo Research Expedition. Nature, v.219, p. 567-572.

Holmes, A.B., 1951. The Sequence of Precambrian Oroganic Belts in South and Central Africa 18th
. Int.GeoI.Cong.,v.14, p.254-269. .

Hunting Geology, 1969. Photogeological and Geophysics Ltd. Survey the Sidamo Area. v.2.

Jelence, D., 1966. Mineral Occurrences of Ethiopia. Ministry of Mines, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

72
Jepsen D.H and Athearn,MJ.,1961. General Geological Map of Blue Nile River Basin, Ethiopia.
1:1,000.000 Scale.

Johanson, CT., 1987. Climatic and Tectonic Effects on Sedimentationin a Rift-Valley Lake: Evidence
from High-ResolutionSeismic Profiles. Lake Turkana, Kenya, Geol. Soc. Am. Bull., v.98, p.439-
447.

Kalb, EJ., 1973. Recent Geological Research in Ethiopia, ComprhesiveBibliography on the Geology of
Ethiopia, Ethipian Geological Survay. Ministry of Mines, Imperial Goverment of Ethiopia, 1ddis
Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kalb, EJ., Oswald BJ, Slelish Tebedge, Assefa Mebrate, Emmanuel Tola and Dennis Peak, 1982.
Geology and Stratigraphy of Neogene Deposits, Middle Awash Valley. Ethiopia Nature, v.
298.,No. 5869, p. 17-25.

Kalb, EJ., 1987. An Ongoing Chapter in Early Hominid Explorations: Artifact and Fossil Discoveries in
the Afar Depression. Ethiopia. Nyame Akuma, no. 21.

Katz, M.B., 1987. East African Rift and Northeast Lineaments: Continental Spreading-Transform System.
Journal of African Earth Science, v. 6.n.1, p.103-107.

Kazmin, V., 1971. Precambrian of Ethiopia. Nature, Physical Science,v. 230 (16), p. 176-177.

Kazmin, V., 1972a. The Geologyof Ethiopia. UnpublishedReport,E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kazmin, v., 1972b. Geological Map of Ethiopia, 1:2,000,000 Sscale. Printed by Hunting Surveys Ltd.
London, E.I.G.S., Addis Ab~ba, Ethiopia.

Kazmin, V., 1972c. Some Aspects of Precambrian Development in East Africa. Nature, v.237, p. 160.

Kazmin, V., 1975. Explanatory Note to the Geology of Ethiopia. E.I.G.S, Bull. no. 2, Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia.

Kazmin, V., 1975b. The Precambrian of Ethiopia and Some Aspects of the Geology of the Mozambique
Belt. Bull. Geophy. Obser., Addis Ababa, v.15, p.27-43.

Kazmin, V., 1976. Ophiolites in the Ethiopian Basement. E.I.G.S., Unpublished. Note no. 35, Addis
Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kazmin, V., 1978. Geology of the Tulu Dimtu Area. E.I.G.S,. Unpublished..Note no.90, Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia.

Kazmin, V., 1979a. Stratigraphy and Correlation of Volcanic Rocks in Ethiopia. E.I.G.S, Unpubiished.
Note no. 106, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kazmin, V., 1979b. Relationship Between Rifts and Precambrian Basement in East Africa. Annals. of
Geological Survey of Egypt, v.19, p. 54-60.

73
 -- ---

Kazmin, V. and Berhe, S.M., 1978. Geology and.Development of the Nazret Area. E.I.G.S. Note no. 100,
p 26 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kazmin, V., Alemu Shiferaw and Tilahun Balcha, 1978. The Ethiopian Basement: Stratigraphy and
Possible Manner of Evolution, Geol. Rund.,,67 (2), p. 531-5~r6.

Kazmin, V., Alemu Shiferaw, Mengesha Tefera, Berhe S.M. and Scnbeto Chewaka, 1979. Precambrian
Structure and Metallogenyof Western Ethiopia. Annals, Geological Survey of Egypt, 9, p.I-18.

Kazmin, V., Berhe, S.M., Nicoletti, M. and Petruccianic, 1980a. Evolution of the Northern Part of the
Ethiopian Rift. In Geodynamic Evolution of the Afro-Arabian Rift System, Atti dei Convegni
Lincei, v.47, p.275-292.

Kazmin, V., Berhe, S.M and Walsh, J., 1980b. Report on the Geological Map of the Ethiopian Rift
Valley, E.LG.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kazmin, V. and Berhe, S.M., 1981. Geological Map of the Ethiopian Rift Valley 1:500,000 Scale.
E.LG.S, Unpublished,Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kedamawit Yeman~ Taieb, M.and Faure H.,1987. Limnoiogical Studies on Intertrappean Continental
Deposits from the northern Ethiopian Plateaus (37°03'; 12Q25'N). J.Afri. Earth Sci, v.6 no 1, p
91-101.

Kedamawit Yemane,RaymolndeBonnefilland Hugws Faure,1985. Paleoclimatic and Tectonic hnplication

of Neogene Microflora From the North-Estern Ethiopia Highlands. Nature, v 318, p 653-656.

Klein G. Dev, 1985. Sandstone Depositional Models for Exploration 6fFossil Fuels. Published in U.S.A,
p 209.

Kozyrev V., Girma Kebede, Safanov Y, Bekele W/Micheal, Gurbanovich G., Teweldemedhin
Tekele,Kiatukov M.,Kuzunetsov J., Tuliankin U. and Arijapov A., 1985. Regional Geological and
Exploration Work for Gold and Other Minerals in the Adola Goldfields. Ethiopian Mineral
Resources DevelopmentCorporation, UnpublishedReport, v. II, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Kroner, A., 1981. Precambrian Plate Tectonics. Developments in Precambrian Geology 4. Elsevier
Scientific Publishers,Amsterdam,TheNetherlands.

Klintz, K., Kreuger, H. and Muller, P., 1975. KlAr Age Determinations of the Trap Basalt of South-
Eastern Part of the Mar Rift. In "Mar Depression of Ethiopia",eds. A. P.tlger and A. Rosier,
Schweizerbart. ScheNerlag., Stuttgart p. 370-374.

Levitte, D., 1970. The Geology of Mekele (Report on the Geology of the Central Part of Sheet ND 37-11).
Unpubli~hed, E.I.G.S, Addis,Ababa.

Lloyd, E.P., 1980. Geological Factors InfluencingGeothermal Exploration in the Lakes District Rift,with
Accompanying Geol. Maps. (E.I.G.S-UNDP Geothermal Project), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Mahdi Shumburo, 1968. The Amba Aradom Formation, Formerly Upper Sandstone, in BIECEP,1985.

74
 Mengesha Tefera and Siefe M. Berhe, 1987. Geological Map of Gore Sheet (NC 36-16) 1:250,000 Scale.
E.LG.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Mengesha Tefera, 1990. Geological Map of Asosa and Kurmuk Sheet(NC 36-7 & NC36-8), 1:250,000
Scale. Unpublished, E.I.G.S., Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Merla, G., Abbate, E., Canuti, P.,Sagri, M. and Tacconi P., 1973. Geological Map of Ethiopian and
Somalia 1:2,000.000 Scale. CNR. Italy.

Merla, G., 1979. Explanatiom to tht: Geological Map of Ethiopia and Somalia 1:2,000.000 Scale.
Department of Geologyand Palaeon., Universityof Florence, Italy.

Meyer, W., Pilger, A., RosIer, A. and Stets J., 1975. Tectonic Evolution of the Northern Part of the Main
Ethiopian Rift in Southern Ethiopia. In "Afar Depression of Ethiopia" eds A. Pilger and A.
RosIer. Schweizerbart Sche Verlag,Stuttgart, p. 375-360.

Nlohr, P.A., 1962. The Geologyof Ethiopia. University. CoIl. of Addis Ababa Press. (reprinted in 1971 at
the Haile Selassie I UniversityPress), Asmara, Ethiopia, p 268.

Mohr, P.A., 1963a. Geological'Map of the Horn of Africa,1:2,000,000 Scale. Philip and Jacey, London.

Mohr, P.A., 1963b. Occurrence of Karroo System Sedimentsin Ethiopia. In Garland,C.R., 1972-1975.

Mohr P.A., 1966. Tectonic Map of the Afar-Plateau Boundary in Wollo and Tigria. Approx. 1:1,000.000
Scale. In: Mohr P.and Govin P. Gravity Traverses in Ethiopia Bull. Geophy. Obs., no.9, Addis
Ababa.Univ., Addis Ababa, EthlOpia.

Mohr, P.A., 1968. The Arabo-Ethiopian Swell: In Tectonics of Africa, 1968.

Mohr, P.A., 1983. The Ethiopian Flood Basalt Province: Nature, v. 303, p.577-584.

Morbedell~,L., Nicoletti, M., Petrucciani, C. and Piccrillo E.M., 1975. Ethiopian South-Eastern Plateau
and Related Escarpment: K-Ar ages of the Main Volcanic Events (Main Ethiopian Rift form 8° 10'
to 9° 00' lat. North). In "Mar Depression of Ethiopia" eds. A. Pilger and A. RosIer.
Schweizerbart, Stuttgart. p. 362-369.

Moore, J.M., Morgan J., Mengesha Teft:ra and Mengist Teklay, 1986. Precambrian Geology of the Gore-
Gambela Geotraverse,Western Ethiopia. In: UNESCO, Geology for Economic Development,
Newsletter 5, p. 101-113.

Moore, J.M., Morgan, J., Mengesha Tefera, and Mengist Teklay, 1987. Geology of the Gore-Gambella
Geotraverse,Western Ethiopia. In: Matheis, G. and Schandelmeier,H. (eds), Current Research in
African Earth Sciences. Balkema, RotterdamlBoston.p.l09-112.

Moore, J.M., Tekelewolde Ayalew and Morgan, J., 1989. Geology of Gore-Gambella Geotravese Area,
Western Ethiopia, 1:100,000 Scale.

75

--- - - ----
- - - - -- ----

Omo.River Project, 1975. Preliminary Report on the Geology and Geochemistry of Parts of Sidamo,
Gemu Gofa and Kafa Provinces, Ethiopia. Ministry of Mines and Energy,E.LG.S, Unpublished,
Note no.2, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Pettijohn, F.1., 1975. Sedimentary Rocks. Harper and Row Publishers~ New York. p.718.

Purcell, G.P., 1981. Phanerozoic Sedimentary History and Petroleum Potential. In: Senbeto Chewaka;
Plate Tectonics and Metallogenesis;someGuide Lines to Ethiopian Mineral DepoSits:- E.LG.S,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Raaben, Y.F., et al., 1979. Preliminary Report on the Evaluation of Petroleum Prospects of the Ogaden
Basin. E.I.G.S, Note no.112, p.79-111, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Saboloviskie G., 1990. Geological Map of Sololo and Moyale Sheet (NA 37-2 & NA 37-3),1:250,000
Scale. UnpublishedPreliminaryDraft, E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Senbeto Chewaka, and de Wit, lM., 1981. Plate Tectonics and Metallogenesis: Some Guide Lines to
Ethiopian Mineral Deposits. Senbeto Chewaka, and de Wit, lM., (e4s.) E.LG.S, Bull.2 ,p 129
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Shackleton, RM., 1976. Pan-African Structures. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of
London, v. A280,p. 491.

Sisay Disasa, 1975. Phosphate Reconnaissance in Degabor-Kebridahr District, Hatar. Unpublished,

E.LG.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Slobodian, Y.P., 1984. Detailed Project Report on the Results of Drilling the Shilabo, Exploratory Well
no.l, Dire Dawa. Oil and Gas Project.

Stoesser, D.B., and Camp V.E., 1985. Pan-African Microplate Accretion of the Arabian Shiled.
Geological Society of American Bulletin.

Tamerat Worku, 1988. Sedimentology,Diagenesis and Hydrocarbon Potential of the Karroo Sediments
(Late Palaeozoicto Early Jurassic), Ogaden Basin,Ethiopia. Unpublished,E.IG.S.

Taieb M and Ttercilin J.1., 1979. Sedimentation pliocene et paleoenvironments de rift example dela
formation a Homenidessite, Mar (Ethiopia). Bull. Soc. Gtx>l.France, \7) XXI n. 3, p. 253-256.

Teklewold Ayalew, Bell K. and Moore lM., 1987. Magmatic Arc Intrusive Complexes in the Birbir
Domain, Western Ethiopia. In: Matheis,G. and Schandelmeier, H. (eds), Current Research in
African Earth Sciences. Balkema, Rotterdam, p. 113-116.

Teklewold Ayalew, Bell K.,Moore lM. and Parrish RR,1990. U~Pband Rb-Sr Geochronology of the
Western Ethiopian Shield. Geol. Soc, Amer. Bull., v.l02, p.1309-1316.

Telahun Balcha, 1983. Preliminary Geological Map of Negele Sheet (NB 37-10),1:250,000 Scale.
UnpublishedPreliminary Draft, E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

76
Tiercelin, J.-J.,Tieb, M and Faure, H.,1980. Contine~tal Sedimentary Basins and Volcano-Tectonic
Evolution of the Afar Rift. In Geodynamic Evolution of the Afro-Arabian Rift system, Atti dei
convegniLincei, Roma. vA7, p.491-504.

Tolossa Shagi, Hailemeskel Awoke and Solomon Meshesha, 1990. Geology and Structure of Moyale area,
Southern Ethiopia. EIGS, Note no. 350, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Tsegaye Hailu, 1975. Geological Map of Ras Dashen Area. 1:250,000 Scale. Unpublished, E.LG.S.,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

1}NDP,1972. Mineral Survey in Two SelectedAreas of Ethiopia. Uni~ Nations, New ¥ork.

UNDP, 1973. Geology, Geochemistry~lIldHydrogeologyof Hot Springs of the East African Rift System
Within Ethiopia. Tech.Rep. DP/SFIUN/IJ6, Investigation of Geothermal Resources for Power
Developmentin Ethiopia, New York, p.285.

Vail, J.R., 1967. Outline of the Geochronology and Tec.10nicUnits of the Basement Complex of Northeast
Africa., Proceedings of the Royal Society of London, A350, p. 117-141.

Vail, J.R., 1983. Pan-African Crustal Accretion in Northeast Africa. Journal of African Earth Sciences, v
1, p.2j5-294.

Vail, J.R., 1985. Relationship between Tectonic Terranes and Favourable Metallogenic Domains in the
Central Arabian-Nubian Shield. Institute of Mining and Metallw;gy Transactions. Section B,
Applied Earth Sciences,v. 94, p. 1-6.

Vail, J.R., Abdel A.E.M.,Abdel Rahman E.M.,and Toum LM.,1986. Geology of Southern Blue Nile
Province,Sudan. Geological Re!;earchAuthority of the Sudan,Bull. nO.37.

Varet, J.,1978. Geology of Central and Southern Afar (Ethiopia and Djibouti Republic) F. Gasse for
Chapter IV on SedimentaryFonnations. Eds. CNRS, 15 quai Anatole, France 75700, Paris.

Williams, M.AJ.,Williams, F.M., Gass F.,Curtis.F and Ach!mson, D.A 1879. Plio-Pleistocene
Environmentat Gadeb Prehistoric Site, Ethiopia. Nature, v. 28~., no. 5734, p.29-33.

William, O.C., 1956. Sedimentary HIstory of the Ogaden Disrrict,Ethiopia. E.I.G.S, Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia.

Woldegabriel Genzeb", Nasir Hassen,Tesfaye Yemane, 1990. Preliminary Geological Map of Agere
Maryam f;heet (NC 36-4),1:250,000 scale. Unpublished,ELG.S, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Workineh Haro, 1988. Potassium-ArgonDating of Some Selected Lava Flows of the Kapturin Formation
(Kenya) M.Sc.Thesis, Free Universityof Brussels, Belgil1l11.

Zanettin,B. and Justin-Visentin,E., 1974. The Volcanic Succession in Central Ethiopia: The Volcanics of
Western Afar and Ethiopian Rift Margins. Mem. 1st. Geol. Miner. University. Padova, v.31, p.l-
19.

77

-- - - --- -
- -- - -- ---

Zanettin,B.,Gregnanin, A., Justin-Visentin,E.,Mezzacasa, G. and Piccirillo, E. M., 1974. Petrochemistry

of the Volcanic Series of the Central Eastern Ethiopian Plateau and Relationships between
Tectonics and Magmatology. Mem. 1st.Geol. Miner. University.Padova, v.31, p.I-34.

Zanettin B.,Gregnanin,A.,Justin-visentin,E.,Mezzacasa,G.and Piccirello E.M., 1976. New Chemical

Analyses of the Tertiary Volcanics from the Central Eastern EthiopianPlateau CNR. Padova, p.l-
43.

Zanettin,B.,Justin-Visentin,E. and Piccirillo,E.M., 1978. Volcanic Succession, Tectonics and

Magmatology in Central Ethiopia. In ART! V(ed) Atti Mem. Accad. Padoviana, Sci. Lett. Art.
11, p.1-19.

Zanettin, B., Justin-Visentin,E.,NicolettiM.,Piccirillo E.M., 1980. CorrelationAmongEthiopi~ Volcanic

formations with Special Referencesto the Chronologicaland Stratigraphic Problems of the "Trap
Series" in GeodynamicEvolution of the Afro-Arabian Rift System. Atti dei convegniLincei,v. 47,
p.231-252.

78
 VII. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We are deeply indebted to th~~Ethiopian Institute of Geological Surveys and our

colleagues in the Regional Mapping Department for data made available to us and
various forms expeditions during the compilation of the work. We sincerely appreciate
our colleagues and friends who made suggestions and fr.ank comments on our
compilation work and gave encouragment to our effort.

79