International Journal of
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Review Article Volume 10 Issue 2
Tectonic and structural controls on mineralization and energy resources in Ethiopia: A comprehensive review
Bishaw Mihret, Ajebush Wuletaw
Received: February 25, 2026 | Published: March 12, 2026
Citation: Mihret B, Wuletaw A. Tectonic and structural controls on mineralization and energy resources in Ethiopia: A comprehensive review. Int J Hydro. 2026;10(2):48-51. DOI: 10.15406/ijh.2026.10.00426
Abstract
Ethiopia hosts a diverse suite of mineral and energy resources that are intrinsically linked to its dynamic tectonic framework. Long lived processes such as continental rifting, faulting, magmatism, and basement deformation have created structurally controlled environments conducive to the concentration of economically significant resources. This review evaluates how structural features—including rift zones, major faults, shear zones, and inherited basement fabrics—govern the occurrence, distribution, and genesis of key geological resources in Ethiopia. Particular emphasis is placed on the Main Ethiopian Rift, Afar depression, and Precambrian terranes as primary structural domains influencing the localization of mineral deposits, geothermal systems, industrial minerals, and potential hydrocarbon accumulations. By synthesizing geological, structural, and resource studies, this review highlights the importance of integrating structural geology into resource exploration strategies. A comprehensive understanding of structural controls not only enhances resource discovery but also underpins sustainable development and informed decision making. The structural evolution of Ethiopia thus provides critical insights into the relationships between tectonics and economic geology in rifted continental settings.
Keywords: structural control, tectonics, economic geology, faults, mineralization
©2026 Mihret, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.