Arba Minch University (AMU), through its College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Department of Geology, collaborating with the South Ethiopia Region Mines Authority, held a joint research project kickoff workshop on March 14, 2026, at the University’s Abaya Campus. The project aims to conduct an “Integrated Assessment of Gemstone, Metallic, and Industrial Mineral Potential” in Goreka Woreda of Kore Zone and Soyima Zuria Woreda of Burji Zone in the South Ethiopia Region. Click here to see more photos.
Speaking at the opening of the event, Dr. Tesfaye H/Mariam, AMU Director of Research and delegate of the Vice President for Research and Cooperation, stated that the mining sector is one of the country’s priority areas for development and economic growth. He noted that AMU is giving due attention to the sector and undertaking various impactful research projects. Dr. Tesfaye further emphasized that the South Ethiopia Region is endowed with diverse mineral resources, making it essential to strengthen collaboration and conduct quality research and mineral exploration for the economic benefit of both the local community and the country.
Dean of the College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Dr. Mulugeta Habte, noted that the workshop was organized to initiate research on mineral resources in the Kore and Burji zones of the South Ethiopia Region. He appreciated the research team for their commitment and hard work in advancing mineral exploration and contributing to the region’s development.
The Deputy Head of the South Ethiopia Regional Mining Authority, Mr. Merkeneh Bogale, said that Ethiopia’s mineral sector is a high-priority and fast-growing economic pillar aimed at diversifying the country’s economy beyond agriculture. He noted that AMU is setting an example for both the region and the nation through its meaningful and impactful research on mineral resources. Mr. Merkeneh added that the regional government is working in close collaboration with the University on initiatives such as this project. He further underscored that the mining sector has experienced significant growth in recent years, supported by investment initiatives and policy reforms designed to transform it into a leading economic pillar.
Project Coordinator, Principal Investigator, and Head of the Department of Geology, Dr. Leulalem Shano, noted that Ethiopia possesses vast and largely untapped mineral resources, including gold, tantalum, potash, gemstones, and industrial minerals, which offer significant investment opportunities. He added that the sector has been growing with government efforts to modernize mining. Over the past decade, AMU and its partners have implemented ten research projects focused on mineral exploration. Dr. Leulalem further explained that the University signed a collaborative agreement with the South Ethiopia Regional Mining Authority to conduct research in the Kore and Burji zones, with 40 percent of the project funding covered by AMU and 60 percent by the regional government. The project will cover 145 square kilometers in Gorka Woreda of Kore Zone and 32 square kilometers in Soyima Zuria Woreda of Burji Zone, with two research teams of seven members each from the Department of Geology participating in the study.
Invited guests included researchers from AMU’s Department of Geology, officials and geologists from the South Ethiopia Regional Mining Authority, as well as officials and heads of mining departments from Kore and Burji zones.
For more Information Follow us on:-
Website - https://www.amu.edu.et/
Telegram - https://t.me/arbaminch_university
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ArbaMinchUniversityccd/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOO_nclhMo8M3r74OyPBlVA
Public and International Relations Executive
