Afar Region - Environment

Environment

The Afar Depression, a plate tectonic triple junction is found in the Afar Regional State. This geologic feature is one of earth's great active volcanic areas. Due to this volcanic activity the floor of the depression is composed of lava, mostly basalt. The continuous process of volcanism results in the occurrence of major minerals including potash, sulfur, salt, bentonite, and gypsum. In addition to these minerals, there are also promising geothermal energy sources and hot springs in different areas of the region. Most of the region's mineral potential are found in Dallol, Berhale and Afxera woredas of Zone Two. Elidar, Dubti and Millee in Zone one and Gewane in Zone Three also have some mineral possibilities.

Afar is home to peculiar wild life, which notably include the Abyssinian wild Ass, Grevy's Zebra, wild fox, wild cat, Cheetah, and Ostrich. These wild animals are found in the region's national parks. Because the region's tourism development is still in a poor state there are only two lodges in Awash National Park.

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