ADDIS ABABA UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES

Department of Geography and Environmental
Studies
Geography of Ethiopia and the Horn
Section 10
CLIMATE

Group Members ID No
1. Firdews Miftah…………………………………….UGR/5648/17
2. Mahilet Tilaye………………………………………UGR/4343/17
3. Raji Tesfaye ……………………………………… UGR/2400/17
4. Ruth Gossa………………………………………..UGR/3091/17
5. Seblewongel Eyoas………………………………UGR/2677/17
6. Sofonyas Asfaw…………………………………..UGR/
7. Sosena Negusse………………………………….UGR/5648/17

Submitted to: Elias I.

2024
I think edition is enough
Get ready
The presenter!
Let it be printed on paper
If there is /are any error/s, let
you correct
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…..i
Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….ii
1. Climate and weather……………………………………………………………………………..............................1
1.1 Climate 1
1.2 Weather 2
2. Controls of Climate …..3
3. Intertropical convergent zone ..6
3.1 Causes of ITCZ 7
3.2 Effects of ITCZ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………8
4. Overview of Ethiopian Climate……………………………………………………………………………………………….8
5. Climate Change…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….10
5.1 Meaning of Climate Change…………………………………………………………………………………….10
5.2 Causes of Climate Change…………………………………………………………………………………..……11
5.3 Consequences of climate Change…………………………………………………………………………….13
5.4 Measures of Climate Change…………………………………………………………………………………..13
Summary………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..iii

Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...iv

Reference………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………....v
Acknowledgment
We, the members of Group 6, wish to acknowledge the invaluable support and guidance received
throughout the development of this assignment.

First and foremost, we express our sincere gratitude to Elias Ibrahim, whose expertise,
constructive feedback, and unwavering encouragement greatly contributed to the depth and
quality of this work. Their guidance was instrumental in helping us navigate the complexities of
the topic and refine our understanding.

We also extend our appreciation to The National Agency of Ethiopia for providing recent and
Up-to-date information on underlying Ethiopian climate.

Furthermore, we are indebted to our peers for their collaborative spirit and thought-provoking
discussions, which enriched our learning experience.

Lastly, we would like to acknowledge all the Librarians of AAU CHS sefera Selam campus for
their patience and support during this endeavor.
Introduction
Ethiopia, situated in the Horn of Africa, exhibits one of the most diverse climates in the world.
Its geographical location, spanning tropical latitudes, coupled with a wide range of altitudes—
from the Danakil Depression at 125 meters below sea level to the peaks of the Simien Mountains
exceeding 4,600 meters—results in a spectrum of climatic conditions. This diversity is
influenced by key factors such as latitude, topography, and the seasonal shifts of the Intertropical
Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Ethiopia experiences distinct climatic zones, including tropical rainy,
subtropical highlands, and arid lowlands, which significantly impact agriculture, biodiversity,
and human settlements.

Ethiopia’s climate is largely defined by three primary seasons: Kiremt (main rainy season from
June to September), Belg (short rains from March to May), and Bega (dry season from October
to February). These seasonal variations are critical for agriculture, the backbone of the Ethiopian
economy, supporting over 80% of the population. The country’s weather patterns are shaped by
atmospheric circulations, including monsoonal winds from the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, as
well as local factors like topographical barriers and proximity to water bodies.

However, climate change poses a significant threat to Ethiopia. Rising temperatures, erratic
rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events, such as droughts and
floods, are disrupting livelihoods and ecosystems. Addressing these challenges requires a
comprehensive understanding of Ethiopia's climate systems and a commitment to sustainable
practices. This paper delves into Ethiopia's climatic characteristics, influences, and challenges,
offering insights into effective mitigation strategies to enhance resilience and ensure
environmental sustainability.
1. Climate and Weather

1.1 CLIMATE

Climate pertains to atmospheric variations over extended periods, generally defined as 30 years
or more. This explains why one can experience an unusually cold period despite a general
increase in global temperatures. The former is considered a weather phenomenon that unfolds
over days, while the latter signifies a long-term climate shift that occurs over decades. In
essence, the cold winter is a relatively minor atmospheric fluctuation within the broader trend of
warming. Although they differ, weather and climate are interconnected. Just like weather,
climate considers precipitation, wind speed and direction, humidity, and temperature.
Essentially, one can view climate as an average of weather patterns over time. More
significantly, shifts in climate can trigger alterations in weather patterns. Climate varies across
different global regions and affects the plant and animal species that inhabit those areas. For
instance, Antarctica boasts a polar climate characterized by freezing temperatures, strong winds,
and some of the driest conditions found on Earth. The species residing there have exquisitely
adapted to endure the severe environment. In contrast, the Amazon rainforest experiences a
tropical climate where temperatures remain consistently warm with high humidity, abundant
rainfall, and vague seasonal changes. These stable circumstances foster an exceptionally rich
diversity of plant and animal life, most of which cannot be found elsewhere on the planet.

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1.2 WEATHER

Weather denotes the short-term conditions of the lower atmosphere, which include precipitation,
temperature, humidity, wind direction, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure. It can be sunny,
cloudy, rainy, foggy, cold, hot, windy, stormy, or snowy … the possibilities are numerous. The
sun is the primary force driving weather by heating air in the lower atmosphere at differing rates.
Warm air ascends while cold air rushes in to occupy its place, resulting in wind. These winds,
combined with moisture in the air, affect the development and movement of clouds,
precipitation, and storms. The atmospheric conditions that impact weather are in constant flux,
which explains why the weather is always changing. Meteorologists interpret data received from
satellites, weather stations, and buoys to forecast weather conditions for the coming days or
weeks. These predictions are vital because weather influences a multitude of human activities.
For instance, sailors and pilots must be aware of approaching storms, while farmers need to
consider weather conditions for planting and harvesting crops. Firefighters also track daily
weather to prepare for potential forest fires. Weather forecasts are additionally beneficial for
military operation planning, trade logistics, and informing the public of possibly hazardous
weather events.

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2. Controls of Climate

Earth’s climate is composed of a complex system and interaction of other natural processes. To
understand the current climate crisis, it is essential to understand the variables, controls, and
systems that directly or indirectly affect it.
Climate is the average of weather in that location over a long period of time, usually for at least
30 years. A location’s climate can be described by its air temperature, humidity, wind speed and
direction, and the type, quantity, and frequency of precipitation. Climate can change, but only
over long periods of time. The climate of a region depends on its position relative to many
things. These factors are described in the next sections

 Latitude

The main factor influencing the climate of a region is latitude because different latitudes receive
different amounts of solar radiation. To review from the Earth’s Atmosphere chapter:
* The equator receives the most solar radiation. Days are equally long year-round and the sun is
just about directly overhead at midday.
* The Polar Regions receive the least solar radiation. The night lasts six months during the
winter. Even in summer, the sun never rises very high in the sky. Sunlight filters through a thick
wedge of atmosphere, making the sunlight much less intense. The high albino, because of ice and
snow, reflects a good portion of the sun’s light.

 Atmospheric Circulation
Recall from the Earth’s Atmosphere chapter the circulation cells and global wind belts. The
position of a region relative to the circulation cells and wind belts has a great effect on its
climate. In an area where the air is mostly rising or sinking, there is not much wind.

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 Global atmospheric circulation model

Source: Internet geography

 Inclination of the Earth's Axis

Angle of Inclination: Earth's axis is tilted at 66.5° relative to its orbital plane (or 23.5° from the
perpendicular to the ecliptic).

Impact on Seasons: The axial tilt causes variations in sunlight distribution, leading to:

o Warmer summers (when a hemisphere is tilted toward the Sun).

o Colder winters (when a hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun).

Equinoxes and Solstices

Equinoxes (Day and Night equal): due to the fact that the sun strikes the plane of the
earth’s equator overhead.

 Vernal Equinox: is the day when the point of verticality of the sun’s rays cross the equator
northward and occurs Around March 21 – Start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
 Autumn Equinox: happens when the sun crosses equator giving approximately equal
length of day and night and occurs Around September 23 – Start of autumn in the
Northern Hemisphere.

Solstices (Longest and Shortest Days): due to the fact that overhead sun appears to cross
northern or southern points relative to the celestial equator.

 Summer Solstice: occurs when the sun is at its highest position in the Tropic of Cancer
o June 21 – Longest day in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the start of summer.
 Winter Solstice: occurs when the sun is directly over the Tropic of Capricorn.
o December 22 – Shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere, signaling the start of
winter

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 Source: national weather service

Intertropical Convergence Zone

The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is the low pressure area near the equator in the
boundary between the two Hadley Cells. The air rises so that it cools and condenses to create
clouds and rain.
Climate along the ITCZ is therefore warm and wet. Early mariners called this region the
doldrums because their ships were often unable to sail because there were no
steady winds.
The ITCZ migrates slightly with the season. Land areas heat more quickly than the oceans.
Because there are more land areas in the Northern Hemisphere, the ITCZ is influenced by the
heating effect of the land.

 Continental Position

When a particular location is near an ocean or large lake, the body of water plays an extremely
important role in affecting the region’s climate.
A maritime climate is strongly influenced by the nearby sea. Temperatures vary a relatively small
amount seasonally and daily. For a location to have a true maritime climate, the winds must most
frequently come off the sea.
A continental climate is more extreme, with greater temperature differences between day and
night and between summer and winter.
The ocean’s influence in moderating climate can be seen in the following temperature
comparisons. Each of these cities is located at 37 ºN latitude, within the westerly winds.

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  Ocean Currents

There are five major ocean-wide gyres — the North Atlantic, South Atlantic, North Pacific,
South Pacific, and Indian Ocean gyres. Each is flanked by a strong and narrow western boundary
current, and a weak and broad eastern boundary current.
The temperature of the water offshore influences the temperature of a coastal location,
particularly if the winds come off the sea. The cool waters of along the western United States is
caused by a clockwise rotating ocean current that is bringing cold water from the arctic toward
the equator.
The climatic effect is that coastal regions of California, Oregon, and Washington are cool.
Coastal upwelling also brings cold, deep water up to the ocean surface off of California, which
contributes to the cool coastal temperatures. But that same ocean current brings warm, tropical
water to eastern Japan.
In the Atlantic Ocean, the northern ocean current, called the Gulf Stream, brings warm water
from the tropics to the southern states.
This is major reason why the southern states experience humid conditions in the summer and
tornadoes because of all this warm moisture. The Gulf Stream also impacts Europe by bringing
warm water northward, making this region that is rather northward warmer than expected.

Ocean current, source: Wikipedia

 Altitude and Mountain Ranges

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A lake in the mountains Air pressure and air temperature decreases with altitude. The closer
molecules are packed together, the more likely they are to collide. Collisions between molecules
give off heat, which warms the air. At higher altitudes, the air is less dense and air molecules are
more spread out and less likely to collide. A location in the mountains has lower average
temperatures than one at the base of the mountains. In Colorado, for example, Lakewood (5,640
feet) average annual temperature is 62 degrees F (17 degrees C), while Climax Lake (11,300
feet) is 42 degrees F (5.4 degrees C).

The average rate at which temperature changes per units of altitudinal change is known as
lapse rate: the three types of lapse rates are:

 Dry Adiabatic Lapse Rate (DALR):

 Definition: Temperature decrease of unsaturated air as it rises.

 Rate: ~10°C per 1,000 meters.
 Mechanism: Air expands and cools due to lower pressure.

 Wet Adiabatic Lapse Rate (WALR):

 Definition: Temperature change of saturated air as it rises.

 Rate: ~4°C to 6°C per 1,000 meters.
 Mechanism: Latent heat released during condensation reduces cooling.

 Environmental Lapse Rate (ELR):

 Definition: Actual temperature change with altitude in the atmosphere.

 Rate: ~6.5°C per kilometer (varies based on local conditions).
 Mechanism: Influenced by atmospheric conditions and surface heat absorption.

3. The inter-tropical convergence zone (ITCZ)

The intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ):- is a significant area where the trade winds from the
Northern and Southern Hemispheres meet. It is characterized by converging winds that rise, cool,
and create clouds and heavy rainfall. There is a misconception said as: - intertropical

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convergence zone is equator. It is not equator it is the name that given for the area in the tropics
characterized by low pressure.
Its existence is due to the convergence of the trade winds: winds in the tropics that move
predominantly from the east and curve towards the equator.
The position of the ITCZ varies seasonally because it follows the Sun; it moves north in the
Northern Hemisphere summer and south in the Northern Hemisphere winter. As a result, the
ITCZ is responsible for the wet and dry seasons in the tropics.

Position of the intertropical convergence zone in January (in blue) and in July (in red). Source:
Wikicommons. Author Mats Halldin, 13 June 2024.

3.1. Causes of intertropical convergent zone

 Exposure of high concentration of sun light or solar heating: The equatorial region
receives more direct sunlight, leading to higher temperatures compared to other latitudes.
This heating causes warm air to rise, creating low pressure. our world is tilted 23°with
this 23° tiltation the tropic of Cancer receives more direct sun light during the month of
July( around June 21) and also the tropic of Capricorn receives more direct sun light in
the month of January( around 22 December). so the low pressure created due to the
concentration of sun light then in July the itcz is going to be along the north with high
rain fall in the tropic of cancer this shifting of itcz leaves the tropic of Capricorn in solo
concentration of sun light around the south so the south experience dry season.
Moving through the year the sun began concentrating its energy towards the tropic of Capricorn
by January and the South experience rainy season and the north experience dry season.
 Trade Winds : The Coriolis effect causes the trade winds to blow from east to west,
converging near the equator, which contributes to the formation of the ITCZ(.When the
northeast trade winds from the Northern Hemisphere and the southeast winds from the
Southern Hemisphere come together, it forces the air up into the atmosphere, forming the
ITCZ).
 Seasonal Changes: The position of the ITCZ shifts with the seasons due to the tilt of the
Earth's axis, affecting precipitation and weather patterns.

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 3.2. Effects of intertropical convergent zone
Heavy Rainfall: The convergence of warm, moist air leads to intense precipitation,
resulting in tropical rainforests and high biodiversity in these regions.
Climate Variability: The ITCZ influences global and regional climate patterns, including
the formation of monsoons and the distribution of tropical cyclones Seasonal shifts in the
location of the ITCZ drastically affects rainfall in many equatorial nations, resulting in
the wet and dry seasons of the tropics rather than the cold and warm seasons of higher
latitudes. Longer term changes in the ITCZ can result in severe droughts or flooding
counties nearby the tropics 3.Biodiversity: The warm, moist conditions support diverse
ecosystems, making these areas available for plant and animal species.
Agriculture: The climatic conditions can be beneficial for agriculture, but unpredictable
rainfall patterns can also lead to droughts or flooding, impacting food security.
Eastern Asia, Atlantic, South American, Australia, South Africa countries get affected by this
intertropical convergent zone. And the climate of Africa (excluding the extreme north and South)
is determined by the movement of itcz.
Generally understanding the dynamics of the intertropical coastal zone is crucial for itcz is
responsible for dry and wet season in tropics so by using that information we can predict weather
patterns, managing ecosystems, and planning agricultural practices.

4. Overview of Ethiopian Climate

Ethiopia is a country that has a remarkably diverse climate this is mainly because of the interplay
of different controls of weather which we discussed earlier just for a recap the major ones are
latitude, altitude, INTCZ etc.
We will try to understand the spatial and temporal distribution of Ethiopian climate by seeing
them through the lenses of those weather and climate controls.
 Latitude: Ethiopia lies between 3-15 degree north of the equator which is within the
tropical zone giving Ethiopia the characteristics of tropical climate which are high
temperature all year around, minimum variation of temperature all year around, generally
humid etc. but due to altitude and other factors which we will cover later Ethiopia’s
climate is not monolithic.
 Altitude: Altitude is one of the main factors that are responsible to diversifying the
climate of Ethiopia. Ethiopia topography ranges from Danakil depression in afar which is
125 below the earth sea level to mount Ras Dashan which is 4620m above sea level. We
can see that the deepest point and the highest point in Ethiopia have a 4745m and due to
the inverse relationship temperature and altitude we would expect the country to have a
spectrum of temperature values not discrete ones.

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 Example : in the Afar depression( which is between latitudes 10-14 degree North) the
temperature could go as far as 30 degree Celsius on the other side Simien mountains which also
around 12-14 degree north but here its temperature could go as low as -15 degree Celsius
Because of its high altitude.
 Intertropical Convergence Zone: The seasonal movement of the winds
determines the country rainfall patterns, temperature, and the distribution of wet and dry
climates. During the kiremt season ( June – September) ITCZ shifts to northward over
Ethiopia this brings moist southwesterly monsoon winds from Atlantic and Indian
oceans leading to a high level of rainfall on the contrary during bega season ( October-
February ) the winds shift southwards away from Ethiopia reducing rain.
Seasonal or temporal variability of Ethiopia
Kiremt (Rainy Season): The main rainy season occurs from June to September, driven by
the southwest monsoon winds. This period is crucial for agriculture as it provides most of the
annual rainfall in the highland regions.
Bega (Dry Season): Spanning from October to February, the Bega season is characterized by
clear skies and cooler temperatures, particularly in the highlands.
Belg (Short Rainy Season): Occurring between March and May, the Belg season is less
predictable and delivers lighter rainfall, which is vital for planting early crops in certain regions.
Spring: spans from March to April when the sun is shining directly over the equator while
shifting north from south
 Proximity to water bodies
Because of Ethiopia’s position in the horn with high proximity to both the Red Sea and Indian
Ocean both of them have influence on the rainfall patterns, temperature and humidity etc. For
example, during monsoon season which is between June and September moisture-laden winds
reach the eastern and southeastern parts of Ethiopia bringing rainfall with it notable cities of the
country eastern region like Dire Dawa and Harar experience relatively higher moisture because
of their position relative to the ocean. So we have seen above why Ethiopia has a diverse climate.
Now based on different elements of weather and climate which we discussed previously we can
divide Ethiopia into different regions with approximately the same type of climate these regions
are as followed:-
The agro ecological zones of Ethiopia:
1. Tropical Rainy Climate (Kolla) Elevation: Below 1,500 meters above sea level.
Temperature: Hot, with average annual temperatures above 27°C. Rainfall: Low to moderate
(200–800 mm annually), with arid and semi-arid regions.
Regions: Found in lowland areas such as the Afar Depression, Somali Region, and parts of the
Omo Valley. Vegetation: Sparse vegetation, including shrubs, acacia trees, and grasses, adapted
to arid conditions.
2. Subtropical Climate (Woyna Dega)

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 Elevation: Between 1,500 and 2,400 meters above sea level. Temperature: Moderate, with
average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. Rainfall: Moderate to high (800–1,200 mm
annually), with well-defined wet and dry seasons. Regions: Includes areas like the central
highlands (Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar)
Vegetation: Dominated by crops like teff, wheat, and barley, along with grasses and scattered
trees.
3. Cool Highland Climate (Dega)
Elevation: Above 2,400 meters. Temperature: Cool, with average annual temperatures below
15°C. Rainfall: High rainfall (1,200–1,800 mm annually), often concentrated during the Kiremt
(June– September). Regions: Found in areas like the Simien Mountains, Bale Mountains, and
parts of northern Ethiopia. Vegetation: Forests, montane grasslands, and crops like barley and
potatoes dominate.
4. Desert Climate
Elevation: Lowlands, especially below sea level in the Danakil Depression. Temperature:
Extremely hot, with average annual temperatures exceeding 30°C, sometimes reaching over
50°C in summer. Rainfall: Minimal (less than 200 mm annually). Regions: Includes the Afar
Depression and parts of the Somali Region. Vegetation: Almost barren, with salt flats and
scattered drought-resistant plants.
5. Tropical Monsoon Climate
Elevation: Varies, primarily in southwestern Ethiopia. Temperature: Warm and humid, with
annual temperatures around 20°C–25°C. Rainfall: Very high, exceeding 1,800 mm annually,
with consistent rains. Regions: Found in areas like Gambella and parts of the western lowlands.
Vegetation: Dense tropical forests and grasslands

5. Climate change
5.1. Meaning of climate change
It is a long term change in the average weather patterns that have come to define Earth's local,
regional and global or regional climate patterns, typically seen as a rising average temperature. It
encompasses a wide range of changes, not just temperature increase but also changes in
precipitation patterns, saw level rise and more frequent extreme weather events. Or Climate
change refers to significant alterations in global temperatures and weather patterns over time.
While climate change is a natural phenomenon, current trends are largely driven by human
activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2), methane
(CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).
These emissions result primarily from burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and various industrial
processes. The result is a warming effect on the Earth's atmosphere, which leads to various
environmental and climatic disruptions.

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5.2. Causes of Climate Change in Ethiopia
The causes of climate change in Ethiopia are multifaceted and reflect both global and local
factors. Here is a more detailed exploration:
1. Deforestation and Land Degradation:
o Deforestation: Ethiopia has lost a significant portion of its forest cover due to agricultural
expansion, logging, and fuel wood collection. Forests play a crucial role in sequestering
carbon dioxide (CO2), and their removal releases this stored carbon back into the
atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
o Land Degradation: Overgrazing, improper agricultural practices, and deforestation have
led to soil erosion and degradation. Degraded lands lose their ability to absorb CO2 and
contribute to the release of greenhouse gases (GHGs).
2. Agricultural Practices:
o Slash-and-Burn Agriculture: This traditional method involves clearing land by burning
vegetation, which releases significant amounts of CO2. While it may be a quick way to
clear land, it contributes to the atmospheric accumulation of GHGs.
o Livestock Farming: Ethiopia has a large livestock population. Ruminant animals, such as
cattle, sheep, and goats, produce methane (CH4) during digestion through a process
called enteric fermentation.
Methane is a potent GHG, with a global warming potential much higher than CO2.
o Rice Cultivation: Although less common in Ethiopia compared to other regions, rice
paddies can emit methane due to anaerobic decomposition of organic matter in flooded
fields.
3. Energy Production and Consumption:
o Biomass Burning: A significant portion of Ethiopia’s energy comes from biomass,
including firewood and charcoal. Burning biomass releases CO2 and other pollutants,
contributing to atmospheric GHG levels.
o Fossil Fuels: While Ethiopia’s use of fossil fuels is relatively low compared to
industrialized nations, the use of diesel and gasoline for transportation and industry is
increasing, leading to higher CO2 emissions.
4. Industrialization and Urbanization:
o Industrial Emissions: As Ethiopia develops, industrial activities increase, leading to
higher emissions of GHGs. Cement production, for example, releases CO2 both from the
combustion of fossil fuels and from the chemical conversion of limestone into lime.

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 o Urbanization: Rapid urban growth leads to increased energy consumption and waste
generation. Urban areas often have higher per capita emissions due to greater energy use
for heating, cooling, and transportation.
5. Transport Sector:
o Vehicle Emissions: The number of vehicles in Ethiopia is rising, particularly in urban
areas like Addis Ababa. Most vehicles run on diesel or gasoline, producing CO2,
methane, and nitrous oxide (N2O). Poor fuel quality and inadequate maintenance
exacerbate these emissions.
o Public Transportation: The lack of efficient public transportation systems forces more
people to rely on private cars and informal modes of transport, increasing overall
emissions.
6. Waste Management:
o Solid Waste: Poor waste management practices, including open dumping and burning of
waste, release methane and CO2. Landfills and dumpsites generate methane through the
anaerobic decomposition of organic waste.
o Wastewater Treatment: Inadequate wastewater treatment can lead to the release of
methane and nitrous oxide. Proper treatment and disposal methods are often lacking,
particularly in rural areas.

7. Population Growth:
Ethiopia has one of the highest population growth rates in the world. A growing population
increases demand for food, energy, and land, leading to deforestation, overgrazing, and higher
emissions. The pressures of a larger population can exacerbate all the aforementioned factors,
leading to more significant environmental impacts.
8. Climate Policy and Governance:
o Policy Gaps: While Ethiopia has made strides in developing policies to address climate
change, there are gaps in implementation and enforcement. Limited resources and
institutional capacity hinder effective climate action.
o Economic Development Priorities: Balancing economic development with environmental
sustainability is challenging. Development projects often prioritize immediate economic
gains over long-term environmental health, leading to increased emissions and resource
degradation.

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5.3. Consequences of Climate Change
The impact of climate change in Ethiopia is profound and multifaceted:
1. Temperature Increases: Average temperatures in Ethiopia have risen, leading to more frequent
and severe heat waves. This exacerbates water scarcity and stresses agricultural production, as
many crops are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
2. Erratic Rainfall Patterns: Changes in rainfall patterns have become more noticeable, with
some regions experiencing intense droughts while others face unseasonal and heavy rains. This
inconsistency severely impacts agricultural yields and food security, given that Ethiopia's
economy is largely agrarian.
3. Droughts and Water Shortages: Recurrent droughts have become a major concern, leading to
water shortages that affect not only human consumption but also agriculture and livestock, which
are critical to the livelihood of millions of Ethiopians.
4. Desertification: Climate change accelerates the process of desertification, where fertile land
becomes increasingly arid. This is particularly problematic in regions like the Somali and Afar
areas, where desertification threatens biodiversity and agricultural productivity.
5. Health Impacts: Climate change can exacerbate health issues through increased prevalence of
vector-borne diseases such as malaria, which thrives in warmer climates. Additionally, food and
water shortages can lead to malnutrition and other related health problems

5.4. Measures/approaches to mitigate Ethiopian climate change

Addressing climate change in Ethiopia requires a multifaceted approach, involving both
mitigation and adaptation strategies:
1. Reforestation and Afforestation: Initiatives to reforest and afforest land are crucial. Ethiopia's
Green Legacy Initiative aims to plant billions of trees to restore degraded landscapes and
enhance carbon sequestration.
2. Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting sustainable agricultural practices, such as conservation
agriculture, agro forestry, and climate-smart farming techniques, can help reduce emissions and
improve resilience. These practices include crop diversification, soil conservation, and the use of
drought-resistant crop varieties.
3. Renewable Energy Development: Expanding renewable energy sources, particularly solar and
wind can reduce reliance on biomass and fossil fuels. Ethiopia's investment in renewable energy
projects, including hydroelectric power, solar farms, and wind turbines, is pivotal in reducing
carbon emissions.

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4. Water Management: Improving water management systems, such as the construction of dams
and irrigation infrastructure, can help mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall and droughts.
Efficient water use and conservation techniques are essential for sustaining agriculture and
human consumption.
5. Education and Awareness: Raising awareness and educating communities about climate
change and sustainable practices is vital. Community-based programs and initiatives that engage
local populations in climate action can foster more sustainable practices and increase resilience
6. Policy and Governance: Strengthening climate policies and governance frameworks is
essential for effective climate action. Ethiopia's Climate Resilient Green Economy (CRGE)
strategy outlines plans to achieve middle-income status by 2025 while developing a green
economy. This involves setting emissions targets, improving environmental regulations, and
integrating climate considerations into national development plans.

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Summary
The document provides an in-depth analysis of Ethiopia's climate, addressing its defining
characteristics, influencing factors, and regional variations. Climate is distinguished from
weather, with the former described as the long-term average of atmospheric conditions
influenced by latitude, altitude, and atmospheric circulations such as the Intertropical
Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Ethiopia’s diverse topography, ranging from the low-lying Danakil
Depression to the high-altitude Simien Mountains, contributes significantly to the country's
climate variability, resulting in distinct zones including tropical rainy, subtropical, cool highland,
desert, and tropical monsoon climates. Seasonal variations like Kiremt (main rainy season), Belg
(short rains), and Bega (dry season) shape agricultural and ecological activities.

The document also examines the implications of climate change in Ethiopia, highlighting
deforestation, land degradation, and unsustainable practices as primary contributors to
greenhouse gas emissions. The resultant impacts, including temperature raises, erratic rainfall,
desertification, and reduced agricultural productivity, pose significant challenges to food security
and biodiversity.

Proposed mitigation strategies emphasize reforestation, renewable energy expansion, sustainable

agricultural practices, and enhanced water management systems. Ethiopia's Climate Resilient
Green Economy (CRGE) strategy is presented as a model for achieving environmental
sustainability while promoting economic growth. This comprehensive resource underscores the
complex interplay of natural and anthropogenic factors shaping Ethiopia's climate and offers
actionable solutions to address emerging challenges.

iii
Conclusion
To sum up, Ethiopia’s climate is shaped by a range of natural and human-induced factors,
resulting in diverse climatic zones and significant seasonal variations. The country faces critical
challenges from climate change, including erratic rainfall, desertification, and rising
temperatures, which threaten agriculture, biodiversity, and water resources. Addressing these
issues requires a multifaceted approach that integrates sustainable practices, effective policy
implementation, and community engagement. Ethiopia’s efforts, such as the Climate Resilient
Green Economy (CRGE) strategy, highlight a commitment to overcoming these challenges and
ensuring long-term environmental and economic resilience.

iv
References:
1, Ethiopian metrological institute (https://www.ethiomet.gov.et)
2, NASA world weather (world wind technology) (https://worldwind.arc.nasa.gov/worldweather)
Zoom earth (live weather map)
(https://zoom.earth/places/ethiopia)
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-geophysical/chapter/controls-of-climate/
https://slcc.pressbooks.pub/physicalgeography/chapter/10
3. https://science.nasa.gov
4. National Meteorological Agency of Ethiopia. “Climate Change National Adaptation
Programme of Action (NAPA) of Ethiopia." Addis Ababa: Federal Democratic Republic of
Ethiopia, 2007.
4. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. "Ethiopia's Climate Resilient Green
Economy (CRGE) Strategy." Addis Ababa: Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, 2011.
5. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). "Climate Change 2014: Impacts,
Adaptation, and Vulnerability." Cambridge University Press, 2014.
6. World Bank. "Ethiopia Climate Risk Profile." Washington, DC: World Bank, 2016.
7. FAO. "Forests and Climate Change Working Paper 12: Forests and Climate Change in Eastern
Africa." Rome: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 2010.
8. Environmental Protection Authority. "Ethiopia's Second National Communication to the
UNFCCC." Addis Ababa: Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, 2015.
9. Global Methane Initiative. "Country Profile: Ethiopia." 2019.