Geography of Ethiopia

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Ethiopia_Topography

Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Location of Ethiopia Location of Ethiopia
Capital and largest city	Addis Ababa
Official languages	Amharic
Area
• Total	1,104,300 km2 (426,400 sq mi)
Population
• 2021 estimate	114,963,588
Currency	Ethiopian birr
Time zone	UTC+3 (EAT)
ISO 3166 code	[[ISO 3166-2:ET |ET ]]

The geography of Ethiopia is diverse and varied, encompassing highlands, lowlands, and a range of climatic conditions. Ethiopia is located in the Horn of Africa and is bordered by Eritrea to the north, Djibouti and Somalia to the east, Kenya to the south, and Sudan and South Sudan to the west.

Topography

Ethiopia's topography is dominated by the Ethiopian Highlands, which cover most of the country. The highlands are divided by the Great Rift Valley, which runs from the northeast to the southwest. The highest peak in Ethiopia is Ras Dashen, which stands at 4,550 meters (14,928 feet) above sea level. The lowlands are found in the eastern and southeastern parts of the country, including the Ogaden region.

Climate

Ethiopia's climate varies significantly due to its diverse topography. The highlands experience a temperate climate with moderate rainfall, while the lowlands have a hot, arid climate. The country has three main seasons: the dry season (bega) from October to February, the short rainy season (belg) from March to May, and the long rainy season (kiremt) from June to September.

Hydrology

Ethiopia is the source of several major rivers, including the Blue Nile, which contributes to the Nile River. Other significant rivers include the Awash River, the Omo River, and the Shebelle River. The country also has several large lakes, such as Lake Tana, which is the largest lake in Ethiopia and the source of the Blue Nile.

Flora and Fauna

Ethiopia is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The highlands are covered with forests and grasslands, while the lowlands are characterized by savannas and deserts. The country is known for its unique wildlife, including the Ethiopian wolf, the Gelada baboon, and the Walia ibex. Ethiopia also has several national parks and protected areas, such as the Simien Mountains National Park and the Bale Mountains National Park.

Natural Resources

Ethiopia has a wealth of natural resources, including fertile soil, minerals, and water resources. The country is known for its coffee production, which is a major export commodity. Other important resources include gold, platinum, and tantalum.

Environmental Issues

Ethiopia faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water scarcity. The government has implemented various initiatives to address these issues, such as reforestation programs and sustainable land management practices.

Related Pages

• Ethiopian Highlands
• Great Rift Valley
• Blue Nile
• Lake Tana
• Simien Mountains National Park
• Bale Mountains National Park
• Ethiopian wolf
• Gelada baboon
• Walia ibex