Ethiopia’s geological structure, situated within the East African Rift System, features significant but poorly quantified reserves of both native sulfur and sulfate minerals. This paper presented a comprehensive synthesis and a critical reevaluation of historical exploration records from the 1960s to current assessments, aiming to clarify the nation's sulfur resource. We compiled and analyzed various reserve estimates from key volcanic locations such as Dallol, Chebrit Ale, and Dofan, which fluctuate dramatically from 1,200 tons to an estimated 7 million tons, highlighting crucial uncertainties due to inconsistent methodologies and limited systematic drilling. Our analysis confirmed the presence of native sulfur associated with hydrothermal activities within evaporite sequences. The study also pinpoints considerable non-volcanic sulfate resources, encompassing extensive gypsum/anhydrite and kieserite deposits, which present a vital alternative source. At the same time, we examine the rising domestic demand in Ethiopia, estimating a possible annual consumption of approximately 20,500 tons to facilitate the national fertilizer blending initiative and current industrial applications, primarily for sulfuric acid production. This demand is presently met entirely through imports, resulting in a significant financial burden and strategic vulnerability. The gap between the uncertain resource base and the evident increasing demand underscores a critical challenge for the nation. We recommend prioritizing systematic geological mapping and employing modern exploration methods that integrate sulfur extraction with other mineral resources to enhance economic viability and further national development goals.
This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Sulphur is a critical raw material for modern industrial economies, primarily use to produce sulphuric acid. Sulphuric acid is treated as a fundamental inorganic chemical used in various industrial applications. It is the world's most widely used industrial chemical
[1]
Apodaca LE. Sulfur. In: U.S. Geological Survey Mineral Commodity Summaries 2022. U.S. Geological Survey; 2022. p. 158-159.
. Its applications ranges from fertilizer production (phosphoric acid, ammonium sulphate), to metal processing, petroleum refining, and diverse chemical industries
[3]
Kucera J. Sulfuric Acid. In: Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. John Wiley & Sons; 2000.
. For developing nations like Ethiopia, securing a domestic source of sulphur helps to reduce import dependency, improve agricultural development, and also establish the foundation for a domestic chemical industry.
Ethiopia's geology, which is the tectonically and volcanically active East African Rift System, provides a favourable setting for sulphur mineralization. Occurrences are mainly of volcanogenic origin, allied with fumarolic activity, with additional substantial potential in evaporative sulphate minerals
[4]
Barberi F, Varet J. The Erta Ale Volcanic Range (Danakil Depression, Northern Afar, Ethiopia). Bulletin Volcanologique. 1970; 34(4): 848-917.
. Historical exploration efforts made during the 1960s which was led by the Ethiopian Geological Institute (EGI) and international companies, generated valuable but fragmented geological data focused principally on Danakil Depression. Despite data's of geological surveys and small-scale mining undertaken previously on sulphur; the full extent, grade, and economic viability of Ethiopia's sulphur resources remain inadequately quantified.
This paper aims to bridge these knowledge gaps by integrating these fragmented historical data into a comprehensible national assessment. We compile and analyze the existing EGI exploration reports to (a) define and quantify the geological sulphur resource potential, (b) analyze the current and projected domestic demand from agricultural and industrial sectors, and (c) provide recommendations for future exploration and strategic development.
2. Geological Setting
The distribution of native sulfur in Ethiopia is primarily influenced by the Quaternary volcanism found in the Main Ethiopian Rift (MER) and the Afar Depression. This geological setting has led to the formation of various volcanic centers known for their vigorous fumarolic and solfataric activity, which contribute to sulfur accumulation through sublimation and interactions between water and rock
[6]
White DE. Environments of Generation of Some Base-Metal Ore Deposits. Economic Geology. 1968; 63(4): 301-335.
. The Danakil Depression, specifically, offers an exceptionally distinct geological environment due to its arid conditions, extreme thermal features, and tectonic activity within the rift zone
[7]
Barberi F, Ferrara G, Santacroce R, Varet J. A Transitional Basalt-Pantellerite Sequence of Fractional Crystallization, the Boina Centre (Afar Rift, Ethiopia). Journal of Petrology. 1975; 16(1): 22-56.
Varet J. Geology of central and southern Afar (Ethiopia and Djibouti). CNRS; 1978.
[7, 8]
. The significant volcanic activity, fueled by the rifting of the African and Arabian tectonic plates, supplies vital energy and raw materials, with locations such as Dallol, Erta Ale, and Dofan generating extreme heat and releasing important gases such as hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide
[9]
Hutchinson RW, Engels GG. Tectonic Significance of Regional Geology and Evaporite Lithofacies in Northeastern Ethiopia. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series A, Mathematical and Physical Sciences. 1970; 267(1181): 313-329.
Martini M. Volcanic Gases. In: Encyclopedia of Volcanoes. Academic Press; 2000. p. 803-815.
[9, 10]
.
The volcanic gases are then initiated by a widespread network of hydrothermal activity. A comprehensive system of fumaroles, hot springs, and underground fractures serves as the crucial pathway, carrying sulphur-rich gases and extremely hot fluids to the surface
[11]
Giggenbach WF. Redox processes governing the chemistry of fumarolic gas discharges from White Island, New Zealand. Applied Geochemistry. 1987; 2(2): 143-161.
. This ongoing, dynamic movement of mineral-rich solutions, driven by heat from magmatic sources, is the fundamental mechanism that enables the transportation of sulphur compounds and prepares for their eventual deposition through processes such as boiling, cooling, and water-rock interaction
[12]
Ethiopian Geological Institute (EGI). Sulphur Exploration in the Dofan Volcanic Area, Afar Region. Unpublished Internal Report; 1982.
[13]
Hedenquist JW, Lowenstern JB. The role of magmas in the formation of hydrothermal ore deposits. Nature. 1994; 370(6490): 519-527.
The final and essential element necessary for the development of significant deposits is the existence of a thick and extensive layer of evaporites, predominantly halite (rock salt), which predominates the subsurface geology
[14]
Bosworth W, Huchon P, McClay K. The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden Basins. Journal of African Earth Sciences. 2005; 43(1-3): 334-378.
. This formation acts as a highly permeable and chemically reactive host rock that allows hydrothermal fluids to circulate and interact efficiently. The interaction between the rising acidic, sulfur-rich fluids and the dissolvable evaporite minerals establishes the perfect chemical conditions, resulting in the oxidation of H2S and the subsequent formation of the area's remarkable native sulfur deposits
[16]
Warren JK. Evaporites: Sediments, Resources and Hydrocarbons. Springer; 2006.
Sulphur mineral deposits in Ethiopia are primarily found within the young volcanic formations of the Aden Series, which consist of trachyte, rhyolite, basalt, pumice, and tuff
[18]
Kazmin V. Geology of Ethiopia: A Review and Geomorphological Perspectives. Ethiopian Institute of Geological Surveys; 1973.
[18]
. The proposed genetic model suggests that acidic fumarolic gases transform the surrounding rock into clay and deposit elemental sulphur in the resulting cavities and fractures
[6]
White DE. Environments of Generation of Some Base-Metal Ore Deposits. Economic Geology. 1968; 63(4): 301-335.
. Mineralization is typically found filling porous rocks such as trachytes and pumice on the floors of craters and throughout fracture systems on volcanic cones
[19]
Ethiopian Geological Institute (EGI). Assessment of Sulphur Occurrences in the Dallol Area, Danakil Depression. Unpublished Internal Report; 1975.
[19]
. Major volcanic-hosted deposits are mainly located in the Afar region, including areas like Dallol and Chebrit Ale in the Danakil Depression, the Dofan Volcano, and the Erta Ale Massif, with additional isolated deposits noted at Jangudi Mountain and Manda
[12]
Ethiopian Geological Institute (EGI). Sulphur Exploration in the Dofan Volcanic Area, Afar Region. Unpublished Internal Report; 1982.
[12]
. The interaction of these fumarolic fluids with large subsurface halite (salt) sequences alters this process in a unique way in the Danakil's hyper-arid environment
[20]
Talbot CJ, Ghebreab W, Oluwole AF. Geology and Mineral Resources of the Danakil Depression, Ethiopia. Journal of African Earth Sciences. 2009; 55(5-6): 159-170.
Furthermore, Ethiopia is home to substantial non-volcanic sulphate mineral deposits in sedimentary basins, which serve as an essential alternate source of sulfur. Gypsum/anhydrite (CaSO4) is the most significant of these; it is found in large quantities in the Mugher Valley and the Blue Nile region, and its reserves are thought to be in the billions of tons
[21]
Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME). Industrial Minerals of Ethiopia. MME Bulletin; 1996.
[21]
. Other significant resources include salt cake (Na2SO4) and kieserite (MgSO4·H2O), which is linked to potash layers in the Danakil's Salt Valley and has reserves in the tens of millions of tons
[22]
Garrett DE. Potash: Deposits, Processing, Properties and Uses. 1st ed. Springer; 1996.
3. Review of Known Occurrences and Estimated Potential
3.1. Native (Volcanogenic) Sulphur Deposits
The native sulphur deposits of Ethiopia, primarily situated in the Danakil Depression, exhibit highly variable resource estimations. This inconsistency is due to different exploration periods, methodologies, and interpretations which makes the overall national assessment challenging. The historical data can be considered inadequate for generating a quantitative resource estimate compliant with modern standards. Consequently, the entire potential of these volcanogenic deposits is therefore still uncertain.
Dallol Mountain, the area with the most historical exploration, underwent drilling in the 1960s, facing substantial technical issues, such as erupting of boiling water and lack of adequate infrastructure, such as access roads. Although surface indications are abundant, the deeper resource is structurally controlled and inadequately defined, with estimates suggesting around 200,000 tons of probable ore. At Chebrit Ale, an impressive historical projection of 7 million tons of high-grade sulphur has not been verified. Moreover, the Dofan Volcano illustrates the discrepancies in estimates, as initial optimistic reserve figures in the millions were significantly lowered after thorough investigations revealed that the high-grade superficial zones were primarily depleted, resulting in an estimated total of about 3 thousand tons.
The collective data indicates a prospective region where historical estimates are highly unreliable, that requires extensive modern exploration techniques to define any economically feasible resources for future development.
Table 1. Summary of selected native sulphur deposit in Ethiopia.
Location
Estimated Reserve (tons)
Grade (% S)
Notes
Dofan (Outcrop 1)
1,349
26.7
Potential area only
Dofan (Outcrop 2)
1,200
8.66
-
Dofan (Outcrop 3)
70
6.4
-
Dallol
200,000 (probable)
18-40
Associated with salts and clay
Chebrit Ale
7,000,000 (reported)
90
Unverified historical estimate
Source: Ethiopian Geological Institute (EGI)
3.2. Sulphate Mineral Resources
The exploitation of sulphate minerals represents a crucial alternative pathway for sulphur production, though it is often more energy-intensive. The vast gypsum and anhydrite resources could be used for sulphuric acid production, particularly if coupled with cement manufacturing that can utilize the lime (CaO) byproduct. The kieserite resources are directly valuable as a magnesium-sulphate fertilizer and could be a byproduct of future potash mining in the Danakil. Moreover, the historical focus on native sulphur created a significant data gap in the assessment of these alternative sources.
4. Global Context and Domestic Demand Analysis
4.1. Global Context of Sulphur
The production landscape of elemental sulfur, which serves as the main raw material for sulfuric acid, has seen a significant transformation in the last five decades. Traditionally, sulfur was extracted using the Frasch process (involving superheated water injection) or sourced from volcanic origins. However, increasing environmental regulations on fuel quality, particularly requirements to lower sulfur levels in transportation fuels have reshaped the sector. Nowadays, more than 90% of the global sulfur supply is a by-product obtained from the desulfurization processes of natural gas and crude oil
[23]
Ober JA. Sulfur. In: U.S. Geological Survey Minerals Yearbook 2017. U.S. Geological Survey; 2017.
. This change means that the availability of sulfur is now inversely related to trends in the energy market; a shift towards low-sulfur fuels or a decline in oil and gas refining can limit sulfur supply, subsequently affecting the costs of sulfuric acid production and the global marketplace
[24]
The Fertilizer Institute. Sulfur and Sulfuric Acid Market Trends. 2020. Available from:
Sulfuric acid is universally regarded as the most produced chemical in the world, both in terms of quantity and industrial use, earning it the title "the king of chemicals." Its yearly production has become a well-recognized key performance indicator for assessing a nation's industrial capability and economic progress, especially within agriculture and heavy industry
[25]
Wagenfeld J-G, Al-Areqi WM, Slavens A, Ghamkhar R, Crispo A. Sulfuric Acid Production: A Vital Measure of National Industrial Development. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research. 2019; 58(34): 15653-15666.
. Current market evaluations reveal that the global market volume was approximately 260 million metric tons in 2021, with forecasts indicating an increase to around 314 million metric tons by 2029
[26]
Market Research Future. Sulfuric Acid Market Research Report - Forecast to 2029. 2022.
[26]
. This growth trend is around 20 million metric tons annually, is mainly fueled by increasing worldwide demand for phosphate fertilizers, which make up the majority of usage, in addition to growth in metal leaching and chemical production, especially in developing economies
[27]
International Fertilizer Association (IFA). Fertilizer Outlook 2021-2025. IFA; 2021.
[27]
.
The agricultural sector significantly drives the demand for sulfuric acid because it is crucial for converting phosphate rock into phosphoric acid, which is a vital ingredient for phosphate fertilizers such as diammonium phosphate (DAP) and triple superphosphate (TSP). This particular use accounts for approximately 60-70% of worldwide production
[28]
European Fertilizer Manufacturers Association (EFMA). Production of Sulfuric Acid. In: Best Available Techniques for Pollution Prevention and Control in the European Fertilizer Industry; 2000.
[28]
. In addition to its role in fertilizers, sulfuric acid is critical across numerous other industries. In metallurgy, it is utilized for leaching ores of copper, uranium, and nickel. It serves as an essential reagent in the chemical synthesis of various products including pigments and plastics, involved in petroleum refining for processes like alkylation and purification, and is used in wastewater treatment
[29]
King M, Davenport WG, Moats MS. Sulfuric Acid Manufacture: Analysis, Control and Optimization. 2nd ed. Elsevier; 2013.
[29]
. Therefore, the sulfuric acid market directly mirrors the conditions of the global agriculture, mining, and industrial manufacturing industries.
4.2. Analysis of Domestic Sulphur Demand
Ethiopia's agricultural sector is the main driver of the country's domestic demand for sulfur, particularly for the production of sulfur-based fertilizers like NPS (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulfur). The national soil fertility mapping project (EthioSIS) has identified widespread sulfur shortages across a significant portion of the nation's agricultural land
[30]
Ethiopian Soil Information System (EthioSIS). Soil Fertility Status and Fertilizer Recommendation Atlas for Ethiopia. ATA; 2016.
[30]
. As a result, the government's transition from a one size fits all approach of applying DAP and urea to customized blended fertilizers has made sulfur an essential macronutrient. This shift has led to a steady and increasing demand for sulfur to be added to locally blended fertilizers such as NPS + Zn + B, which are now routinely recommended for areas like Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, and SNNP. The anticipated local demand for fertilizer is projected to reach as much as 2.2 million metric tons by 2025, which has a direct impact on the requirements for sulphur. Since the recommended formulations for most areas consist of sulphur-based compounds, a considerable portion of this overall demand will require sulphur imports for blending facilities. Currently, the supply chain relies entirely on imports, as there is no documented local production of elemental sulfur or sulfuric acid
[31]
Fertilizer Roadmap. (2016). National Technological Roadmap for Fertilizer Industry. Ministry of Science and Technology.
[31]
.
Ethiopia meets its entire sulfur requirement for the production of sulfuric acid through imports, as there are currently no functioning local sources. The only sulfuric acid manufacturer in the country, Awash Melkassa Chemical Factory (AMCF), depends completely on imported elemental sulfur, which is mainly obtained from Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Turkey. To maintain its sulfuric acid production capacity of 17,000 tons per year, the factory needs roughly 6,000 tons of sulfur annually. Import statistics from the past ten years (2014–2023) indicate that an average of 14,543 metric tons of sulfur and sulfur products was brought in each year, costing the nation approximately $6.5 million USD annually. This ongoing importation imposes a considerable burden on Ethiopia's limited foreign currency reserves.
Previous studies by Ethiopian Geological Institute showed presence of local sulphur reserves, including the volcanic deposits in Dofan (which are estimated to 2,600 tons) and also significantly larger reserves in the Dallol and Danakil depressions (estimated a total of 7.2 million tons); however, these resources have not been commercially developed. Currently Ethiopia is fully dependent on imports to fulfill its sulphur requirements for both the fertilizer and industrial sectors. Moreover, the potential for future increases in sulphur demand is significant but still untapped; satisfying the current fertilizer needs of the country would necessitate 1.5 million tons of sulfuric acid, indicating a substantial corresponding need for sulphur
[31]
Fertilizer Roadmap. (2016). National Technological Roadmap for Fertilizer Industry. Ministry of Science and Technology.
[31]
. This highlights a tremendous opportunity for reducing imports and fostering economic growth if local sulphur resources can be developed commercially. Until that happens, Ethiopia's demand for sulphur will remain an expensive, import-reliant for both agricultural and industrial sectors.
5. Discussion: Synthesis and Economic Implications
This integrated assessment underscores a significant gap between Ethiopia's recorded sulphur resource potential and its strategic industrial goals. The analysis reveals a critical paradox although the country is situated within a geologically promising rift system, it completely relies on imports for a crucial commodity essential to its agricultural and industrial progress
[30]
Ethiopian Soil Information System (EthioSIS). Soil Fertility Status and Fertilizer Recommendation Atlas for Ethiopia. ATA; 2016.
[32]
Tadesse, S., Milesi, J. P., & Deschamps, Y. (2003). Geology and mineral potential of Ethiopia: a note on geology and mineral map of Ethiopia. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 36(4), 273-313.
. The substantial differences in past reserve estimates; from 1,200 tons at Dofan to a claimed 7 million tons at Chebrit Ale are not just discrepancies but indicate a total absence of modern resource definitions. The challenges faced at Dallol during the 1960s, such as drilling hazards and insufficient infrastructure, continue to be relevant today. As a result, no economically feasible native sulphur deposit can be asserted until comprehensive exploration using modern methods is carried out. At the same time, the potential of sulphate minerals (gypsum, anhydrite, kieserite) has historically been underestimated. Although their processing requires more energy, their reserves are significantly larger and better documented, and their development could align well with Ethiopia’s expanding cement industry or prospective potash extraction
[33]
Holwerda, J. G., & Hutchinson, R. W. (1968). Potash-bearing evaporites in the Danakil area, Ethiopia. Economic Geology, 63(2), 124-150.
Tadesse, S. (2016). Industrial Mineral and Rock Resources of Ethiopia. Ethiopian Institute of Geological Surveys, Bulletin No. 4.
[33, 34]
.
The analysis of demand provides a strong and convincing economic rationale for intervention. The current Ethiopia's yearly imports of more than 2,250 tons of raw sulphur signify a persistent depletion of foreign currency reserves for a specific industrial component. Even more importantly, the anticipated requirement of roughly 20,500 tons annually to facilitate the fertilizer blending initiative and industrial expansion will dramatically escalate this financial strain and heighten the nation's susceptibility to fluctuations in global sulphur prices
[31]
Fertilizer Roadmap. (2016). National Technological Roadmap for Fertilizer Industry. Ministry of Science and Technology.
[31]
. The economic implications are twofold; establishing a domestic source of sulphur acts as a strategic approach to mitigate risks associated with supply chain interruptions and unpredictable global markets, while also facilitating the development of a local value chain. It is essential for the cost-effective production of sulphuric acid, which is fundamental to both the fertilizer sector and other industries, thus promoting overall economic growth.
The conventional exploration approach, which concentrates solely on locating and extracting high-quality native sulphur, is not financially viable for Ethiopia's unique deposits. This assessment calls for a shift in strategy towards a more comprehensive, demand-oriented exploration and development method. Emphasis should be given on systematic modern exploration techniques, such as targeted geological mapping and drilling, to accurately define compliant resources. According to
[35]
Giordano, G., Cas, R., & Wright, J. V. (2024). The geology of volcanoes and their facies models: morphology, dynamics, evolution, successions, economic significance and hazards. In Volcanology: Processes, Deposits, Geology and Resources (pp. 1239-1426). Cham: Springer International Publishing.
, it must also incorporate synergistic development, considering sulfur not in isolation but as part of a resource cluster, such as co-locating with geothermal energy for processing or integrating with future potash mining or cement manufacture. To concentrate efforts on the most promising deposits and easily exploitable alternatives, strategic prioritization based on a thorough cost-benefit analysis is crucial.
Moreover, this synthesis indicates that although Ethiopia has a suitable geological environment for sulphur, it currently does not have a quantified, economically feasible resource base to satisfy its increasing domestic need. The nation's dependence on sulphur represents a serious strategic risk that obstructs its agricultural and industrial progression. The economic consequences are obvious: a persistent reliance on imports creates a costly long-term burden. Hence it is recommended to encourage integrated projects that combine sulphur extraction with geothermal energy or other mining activities, and facilitate pilot studies for processing sulphate minerals suited to the Ethiopian context.
Bridging the gap between Ethiopia's unpredictable sulphur resources with its certain demand is not just a geological issue but also an essential economic necessity. The way ahead involves looking beyond past data and embracing a comprehensive, innovative strategy for resource development that aligns with national objectives for food security and industrial advancement. This will necessitate a unified effort to convert geological potential into a measurable and economically sustainable resource that can drive Ethiopia's agricultural and industrial expansion.
6. Conclusion
This research reveals although Ethiopia has substantial geological potential for both volcanogenic and sulphate sulfur resources within the East African Rift System, the historical data remains inadequate to establish any measurable, economically viable resource base that could fulfill the nation’s increasing domestic needs. The significant variations in historical reserve estimates, ranging from 1,200 to 7 million tons, underscore serious uncertainties and a critical lack of up-to-date, compliant resource characterization, which leaves the country reliant on expensive imports that deplete foreign currency reserves and expose it to strategic risks from global market fluctuations. Consequently, addressing the disparity between this uncertain resource base and the rising demand of sulphur for agricultural and industrial development is not just a geological issue but a vital economic necessity that demands a transformative shift from disjointed historical evaluations to a cohesive, demand-oriented exploration and development approach.
Abbreviations
EGI
Ethiopian Geological Institute
MER
Main Ethiopian Rift
H2S
Hydrogen Sulfide
SO2
Sulfur Dioxide
CaSO4
Calcium Sulfate (Gypsum/Anhydrite)
Na2SO4
Sodium Sulfate (Salt Cake)
MgSO4·H2O
Magnesium Sulfate Monohydrate (Kieserite)
CaO
Calcium Oxide (Lime)
DAP
Diammonium Phosphate
TSP
Triple Superphosphate
NPS
Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulfur fertilizer
SNNP
Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region (Ethiopia)
AMCF
Awash Melkassa Chemical Factory
MoANR
Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources (Ethiopia)
EthioSIS
Ethiopian Soil Information System
USGS
United States Geological Survey
ICIS
Independent Chemical Information Service
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
References
[1]
Apodaca LE. Sulfur. In: U.S. Geological Survey Mineral Commodity Summaries 2022. U.S. Geological Survey; 2022. p. 158-159.
Barberi F, Ferrara G, Santacroce R, Varet J. A Transitional Basalt-Pantellerite Sequence of Fractional Crystallization, the Boina Centre (Afar Rift, Ethiopia). Journal of Petrology. 1975; 16(1): 22-56.
Varet J. Geology of central and southern Afar (Ethiopia and Djibouti). CNRS; 1978.
[9]
Hutchinson RW, Engels GG. Tectonic Significance of Regional Geology and Evaporite Lithofacies in Northeastern Ethiopia. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series A, Mathematical and Physical Sciences. 1970; 267(1181): 313-329.
Martini M. Volcanic Gases. In: Encyclopedia of Volcanoes. Academic Press; 2000. p. 803-815.
[11]
Giggenbach WF. Redox processes governing the chemistry of fumarolic gas discharges from White Island, New Zealand. Applied Geochemistry. 1987; 2(2): 143-161.
Kazmin V. Geology of Ethiopia: A Review and Geomorphological Perspectives. Ethiopian Institute of Geological Surveys; 1973.
[19]
Ethiopian Geological Institute (EGI). Assessment of Sulphur Occurrences in the Dallol Area, Danakil Depression. Unpublished Internal Report; 1975.
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Talbot CJ, Ghebreab W, Oluwole AF. Geology and Mineral Resources of the Danakil Depression, Ethiopia. Journal of African Earth Sciences. 2009; 55(5-6): 159-170.
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Ethiopian Soil Information System (EthioSIS). Soil Fertility Status and Fertilizer Recommendation Atlas for Ethiopia. ATA; 2016.
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Tadesse, S., Milesi, J. P., & Deschamps, Y. (2003). Geology and mineral potential of Ethiopia: a note on geology and mineral map of Ethiopia. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 36(4), 273-313.
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Giordano, G., Cas, R., & Wright, J. V. (2024). The geology of volcanoes and their facies models: morphology, dynamics, evolution, successions, economic significance and hazards. In Volcanology: Processes, Deposits, Geology and Resources (pp. 1239-1426). Cham: Springer International Publishing.
Techane, G., Mekonen, G., Yirga, L., Bedo, M., Girmay, M., et al. (2025). Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift. Innovation, 6(4), 165-170. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
Techane, G.; Mekonen, G.; Yirga, L.; Bedo, M.; Girmay, M., et al. Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift. Innovation. 2025, 6(4), 165-170. doi: 10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
Techane G, Mekonen G, Yirga L, Bedo M, Girmay M, et al. Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift. Innovation. 2025;6(4):165-170. doi: 10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
@article{10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13,
author = {Gera Techane and Gutema Mekonen and Lijalem Yirga and Megersa Bedo and Meaza Girmay and Enatfenta Melaku and Bisrat Kebede},
title = {Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift},
journal = {Innovation},
volume = {6},
number = {4},
pages = {165-170},
doi = {10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13},
url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13},
eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.innov.20250604.13},
abstract = {Ethiopia’s geological structure, situated within the East African Rift System, features significant but poorly quantified reserves of both native sulfur and sulfate minerals. This paper presented a comprehensive synthesis and a critical reevaluation of historical exploration records from the 1960s to current assessments, aiming to clarify the nation's sulfur resource. We compiled and analyzed various reserve estimates from key volcanic locations such as Dallol, Chebrit Ale, and Dofan, which fluctuate dramatically from 1,200 tons to an estimated 7 million tons, highlighting crucial uncertainties due to inconsistent methodologies and limited systematic drilling. Our analysis confirmed the presence of native sulfur associated with hydrothermal activities within evaporite sequences. The study also pinpoints considerable non-volcanic sulfate resources, encompassing extensive gypsum/anhydrite and kieserite deposits, which present a vital alternative source. At the same time, we examine the rising domestic demand in Ethiopia, estimating a possible annual consumption of approximately 20,500 tons to facilitate the national fertilizer blending initiative and current industrial applications, primarily for sulfuric acid production. This demand is presently met entirely through imports, resulting in a significant financial burden and strategic vulnerability. The gap between the uncertain resource base and the evident increasing demand underscores a critical challenge for the nation. We recommend prioritizing systematic geological mapping and employing modern exploration methods that integrate sulfur extraction with other mineral resources to enhance economic viability and further national development goals.},
year = {2025}
}
TY - JOUR
T1 - Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift
AU - Gera Techane
AU - Gutema Mekonen
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AU - Bisrat Kebede
Y1 - 2025/12/09
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PB - Science Publishing Group
SN - 2994-7138
UR - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
AB - Ethiopia’s geological structure, situated within the East African Rift System, features significant but poorly quantified reserves of both native sulfur and sulfate minerals. This paper presented a comprehensive synthesis and a critical reevaluation of historical exploration records from the 1960s to current assessments, aiming to clarify the nation's sulfur resource. We compiled and analyzed various reserve estimates from key volcanic locations such as Dallol, Chebrit Ale, and Dofan, which fluctuate dramatically from 1,200 tons to an estimated 7 million tons, highlighting crucial uncertainties due to inconsistent methodologies and limited systematic drilling. Our analysis confirmed the presence of native sulfur associated with hydrothermal activities within evaporite sequences. The study also pinpoints considerable non-volcanic sulfate resources, encompassing extensive gypsum/anhydrite and kieserite deposits, which present a vital alternative source. At the same time, we examine the rising domestic demand in Ethiopia, estimating a possible annual consumption of approximately 20,500 tons to facilitate the national fertilizer blending initiative and current industrial applications, primarily for sulfuric acid production. This demand is presently met entirely through imports, resulting in a significant financial burden and strategic vulnerability. The gap between the uncertain resource base and the evident increasing demand underscores a critical challenge for the nation. We recommend prioritizing systematic geological mapping and employing modern exploration methods that integrate sulfur extraction with other mineral resources to enhance economic viability and further national development goals.
VL - 6
IS - 4
ER -
Techane, G., Mekonen, G., Yirga, L., Bedo, M., Girmay, M., et al. (2025). Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift. Innovation, 6(4), 165-170. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
Techane, G.; Mekonen, G.; Yirga, L.; Bedo, M.; Girmay, M., et al. Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift. Innovation. 2025, 6(4), 165-170. doi: 10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
Techane G, Mekonen G, Yirga L, Bedo M, Girmay M, et al. Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift. Innovation. 2025;6(4):165-170. doi: 10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
@article{10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13,
author = {Gera Techane and Gutema Mekonen and Lijalem Yirga and Megersa Bedo and Meaza Girmay and Enatfenta Melaku and Bisrat Kebede},
title = {Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift},
journal = {Innovation},
volume = {6},
number = {4},
pages = {165-170},
doi = {10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13},
url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13},
eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.innov.20250604.13},
abstract = {Ethiopia’s geological structure, situated within the East African Rift System, features significant but poorly quantified reserves of both native sulfur and sulfate minerals. This paper presented a comprehensive synthesis and a critical reevaluation of historical exploration records from the 1960s to current assessments, aiming to clarify the nation's sulfur resource. We compiled and analyzed various reserve estimates from key volcanic locations such as Dallol, Chebrit Ale, and Dofan, which fluctuate dramatically from 1,200 tons to an estimated 7 million tons, highlighting crucial uncertainties due to inconsistent methodologies and limited systematic drilling. Our analysis confirmed the presence of native sulfur associated with hydrothermal activities within evaporite sequences. The study also pinpoints considerable non-volcanic sulfate resources, encompassing extensive gypsum/anhydrite and kieserite deposits, which present a vital alternative source. At the same time, we examine the rising domestic demand in Ethiopia, estimating a possible annual consumption of approximately 20,500 tons to facilitate the national fertilizer blending initiative and current industrial applications, primarily for sulfuric acid production. This demand is presently met entirely through imports, resulting in a significant financial burden and strategic vulnerability. The gap between the uncertain resource base and the evident increasing demand underscores a critical challenge for the nation. We recommend prioritizing systematic geological mapping and employing modern exploration methods that integrate sulfur extraction with other mineral resources to enhance economic viability and further national development goals.},
year = {2025}
}
TY - JOUR
T1 - Assessment of Volcanogenic Sulphur Resource Potential in the Ethiopian Rift
AU - Gera Techane
AU - Gutema Mekonen
AU - Lijalem Yirga
AU - Megersa Bedo
AU - Meaza Girmay
AU - Enatfenta Melaku
AU - Bisrat Kebede
Y1 - 2025/12/09
PY - 2025
N1 - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
DO - 10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
T2 - Innovation
JF - Innovation
JO - Innovation
SP - 165
EP - 170
PB - Science Publishing Group
SN - 2994-7138
UR - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.innov.20250604.13
AB - Ethiopia’s geological structure, situated within the East African Rift System, features significant but poorly quantified reserves of both native sulfur and sulfate minerals. This paper presented a comprehensive synthesis and a critical reevaluation of historical exploration records from the 1960s to current assessments, aiming to clarify the nation's sulfur resource. We compiled and analyzed various reserve estimates from key volcanic locations such as Dallol, Chebrit Ale, and Dofan, which fluctuate dramatically from 1,200 tons to an estimated 7 million tons, highlighting crucial uncertainties due to inconsistent methodologies and limited systematic drilling. Our analysis confirmed the presence of native sulfur associated with hydrothermal activities within evaporite sequences. The study also pinpoints considerable non-volcanic sulfate resources, encompassing extensive gypsum/anhydrite and kieserite deposits, which present a vital alternative source. At the same time, we examine the rising domestic demand in Ethiopia, estimating a possible annual consumption of approximately 20,500 tons to facilitate the national fertilizer blending initiative and current industrial applications, primarily for sulfuric acid production. This demand is presently met entirely through imports, resulting in a significant financial burden and strategic vulnerability. The gap between the uncertain resource base and the evident increasing demand underscores a critical challenge for the nation. We recommend prioritizing systematic geological mapping and employing modern exploration methods that integrate sulfur extraction with other mineral resources to enhance economic viability and further national development goals.
VL - 6
IS - 4
ER -
,
Gutema Mekonen
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