Ethiopia is a landlocked country located in the Horn of Africa. It 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.
Area
Ethiopia covers an area of approximately 1.13 million square kilometers, making it one of the largest countries in Africa.
Coastline
Ethiopia does not have a coastline. It became landlocked following the secession of Eritrea in 1993.
Climate
Ethiopia’s climate is largely temperate, influenced by its high altitude. The country experiences a range of climates from tropical monsoon in the southwest to arid in the northeast. The highlands enjoy a cooler climate, while the lowlands are hotter and drier.
Terrain
The terrain of Ethiopia is diverse, featuring high plateaus, mountains, and lowlands. The Ethiopian Highlands, also known as the Roof of Africa, dominate the central part of the country. The Great Rift Valley runs through Ethiopia from northeast to southwest, creating a dramatic landscape.
Lowest Point
The lowest point in Ethiopia is the Danakil Depression, which lies at approximately 125 meters below sea level. It is one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth.
Highest Point
The highest point in Ethiopia is Ras Dashen, which stands at 4,550 meters above sea level. It is part of the Simien Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Natural Resources
Ethiopia is rich in natural resources, including gold, platinum, copper, potash, natural gas, and hydropower potential. The country also has significant agricultural resources, with coffee being one of its most important exports.
Population
As of 2023, Ethiopia has a population of approximately 126 million people, making it the second-most populous country in Africa after Nigeria.
Ethnic Groups
Ethiopia is home to more than 80 ethnic groups. The largest ethnic groups include the Oromo, Amhara, Somali, and Tigray. Each group has its own distinct language, culture, and traditions.
Languages
Ethiopia is a multilingual nation with over 80 languages spoken. The official language is Amharic, but other widely spoken languages include Oromo, Tigrinya, and Somali. English is also commonly used, especially in education and government.
Natural Hazards
Ethiopia faces several natural hazards, including droughts, floods, and earthquakes. The country is particularly vulnerable to drought, which can have severe impacts on agriculture and food security.
Environmental Issues
Ethiopia’s environmental issues include deforestation, soil erosion, desertification, and loss of biodiversity. Rapid population growth and agricultural expansion have put pressure on the country’s natural resources, leading to environmental degradation.