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/
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
 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We, the member of group 6, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who
supported us in completing this geography assignment.

First and foremost, our sincere thanks go to our instructor, Elias Ibrahim, for his invaluable
guidance throughout the process.

secondly, we would like to thank the creators and contributors of various social media platforms,
which served as important tools for accessing up-to-date information, discussions, and visual
resources related to climate and geography. Social media platforms have made it easier to
connect with experts, view diverse perspectives, and gather information that has enriched this
assignment.

Additionally, we would like to acknowledge all the Librarians of AAU CHS Sefera Selam campus
for their patience and support during this endeavor.

Lastly, I am grateful to my family and friends for their unwavering support and motivation during
this project.

Thank you all for your contributions and encouragement.

 TABLE OF CONTENT
TITLE PAGE
a. INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………….1
1. CLIMATE AND WEATHER…………………………………………………………………2
1.1. CLIMATE……………………………………………………………………………..2
1.2. WEATHER……………………………………………………………………………2
2. CONTROL OF CLIMATE……………………………………………………………………3
3. INTER TROPICAL CONVERGENT ZONE(ITCZ)………………………………………..6
3.1 CAUSE OF ITCZ…………………………………………………………………………7
3.2. EFFECT OF ITCZ………………………………………………………………………7
4. AN OVERVIEW OF THE CLIMATE OF ETHIOPIA………………………………….......8
5. CLIMATE CHANGE…………………………………………………………………………10
5.1. MEANING OF CLIMATE CHANGE……………………………………………....10
5.2. CAUSE OF CLIMATE CHANGE…………………………………………………10
5.3. CONSEQUENCE OF CLIMATE CHANGE………………………………………12
5.4. CONTROL METHODS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE IN ETHIOPIA……………..12
5.5. MEASURES OF CLIMATE CHANGE……………………………………………13
6. SUMMARY……………………………………………………………………………………15
7. CONCLUSION………………………………………………………………………………16
8. REFERENCES………………………………………………………………………………17
 INTRODUCTION

Climate plays an indispensable role in shaping the Earth’s ecosystems, weather patterns, and
human activities. It is the long-term average of atmospheric conditions, including temperature,
humidity, and precipitation, which collectively determine the characteristics of a region.
Weather, on the other hand, refers to short-term variations in these conditions and is often what
people observe daily. The relationship between climate and weather is foundational in
understanding the natural processes that influence life on Earth.

Several factors, known as the controls of climate, influence the climate of a region. These
include latitude, which determines solar energy distribution; altitude, which affects temperature
and pressure; proximity to oceans, which moderates temperatures; wind and ocean currents,
which distribute heat globally; and landforms such as mountains, which can create rain
shadows or influence wind patterns. Among these controls, the Inter-Tropical Convergence
Zone (ITCZ) is particularly significant in the tropics. The ITCZ, a belt of low pressure near the
equator, is formed by the convergence of trade winds and is responsible for influencing rainfall
patterns and the shifting of seasons in many parts of the world.

Ethiopia, located in the tropics, exhibits a remarkable variety of climates due to its diverse
topography and geographic location. From the hot and arid lowlands to the cool and temperate
highlands, Ethiopia's climate is shaped by factors such as elevation, the ITCZ, and regional
weather systems. This climatic diversity supports a range of ecosystems and agricultural
activities that are vital to the country's economy and cultural heritage. However, Ethiopia's
climate is increasingly being affected by global climate change.
Climate change, defined as long-term changes in temperature, precipitation, and other
atmospheric conditions, has emerged as one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st
century. Ethiopia, like many developing nations, is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate
change due to its reliance on rain-fed agriculture and limited adaptive capacity. Rising
temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather events have
far-reaching consequences for the country’s economy, food security, and biodiversity.

Understanding the causes of climate change, which include both natural processes and human
activities such as deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions, is critical for developing
effective solutions. In Ethiopia, measures such as afforestation, improved water management,
and international cooperation are essential for mitigating the effects of climate change and
ensuring sustainable development.

This assignment aims to provide an in-depth exploration of climate and weather, the controls of
climate, and the role of the ITCZ in influencing global and regional climates. It will also offer a
detailed overview of Ethiopia’s unique climatic conditions and examine the causes,
consequences, and measures to address climate change in the Ethiopian context. By shedding
light on these topics, the assignment seeks to highlight the importance of understanding and
addressing climatic challenges for the well-being of current and future generations.

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 1. CLIMATE AND WEATHER
1.1 CLIMATE

Climate refers to atmospheric changes over longer periods of time, usually defined as 30 years
or more. This is why it is possible to have an especially cold spell even though, on average,
global temperatures are rising. The former is a weather event that takes place over the course
of days, while the latter indicates an overall change in climate, which occurs over decades. In
other words, the cold winter is a relatively small atmospheric perturbation within a much larger,
long-term trend of warming.

Despite their differences, weather and climate are interlinked. As with weather, climate takes
into account precipitation, wind speed and direction, humidity, and temperature. In fact, climate
can be thought of as an average of weather conditions over time. More importantly, a change in
climate can lead to changes in weather patterns.

Climate conditions vary between different regions of the world and influence the types of plants
and animals that live there. For example, the Antarctic has a polar climate with subzero
temperatures, violent winds, and some of the driest conditions on Earth. The organisms that live
there are highly adapted to survive the extreme environment.

By contrast, the Amazon rainforest enjoys a tropical climate. Temperatures are consistently
warm with high humidity, plenty of rainfall, and a lack of clearly defined seasons. These stable
conditions support a very high diversity of plant and animal species, many of which are found
nowhere else in the world.
1.2 WEATHER

Weather refers to the short-term conditions of the lower atmosphere, such as precipitation,
temperature, humidity, wind direction, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure. It could be sunny,
cloudy, rainy, foggy, cold, hot, windy, stormy, snowing … the list goes on.

The sun drives different types of weather by heating air in the lower atmosphere at varying
rates. Warm air rises and cold air rushes in to fill its place, causing wind. These winds, along
with water vapor in the air, influence the formation and movement of clouds, precipitation, and
storms.

The atmospheric conditions that influence weather are always fluctuating, which is why the
weather is always changing. Meteorologists analyze data from satellites, weather stations, and
buoys to predict weather conditions over the upcoming days or weeks. These forecasts are
important because weather influences many aspects of human activity. Sailors and pilots, for
example, need to know when there might be a big storm coming, and farmers need to plan
around the weather to plant and harvest crops. Firefighters also keep track of daily weather in
order to be prepared for the likelihood of forest fires. Weather forecasts are also useful for
military mission planning, for features of trade, and for warning people of potentially dangerous
weather conditions.

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 2. CONTROL 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

1) 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 albedo, because of ice
and snow, reflects a good portion of the sun’s light.

2) 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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3) 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. In Northern Hemisphere summer, it is approximately 5o north of the
equator while in the winter it shifts back and is approximately at the equator. As the ITCZ shifts,
the major wind belts also shift slightly north in summer and south in winter, which causes the
wet and dry seasons in this area.

# Hadley Cell and Ferrel Cell Boundaries

At about 30 degrees N and 30 degrees S, the air is fairly warm and dry because much of it
came from the equator where it lost most of its moisture at the ITCZ. At this location the air is
descending, and sinking air warms and causes evaporation.

Mariners named this region the horse latitudes. Sailing ships were sometimes delayed for so
long by the lack of wind that they would run out of water and food for their livestock. Sailors
tossed horses and other animals over the side after they died. Sailors sometimes didn’t make it
either.

# Prevailing Winds

The prevailing winds are the bases of the Hadley, Ferrell, and Polar Cells. These winds greatly
influence the climate of a region because they bring the weather from the locations they come
from. For example, in California, the predominant winds are the westerlies blowing in from the
Pacific Ocean, which bring in relatively cool air in summer and relatively warm air in winter.
Local winds also influence local climate. For example, land breezes and sea breezes moderate
coastal temperatures

4) 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.

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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.

5) 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 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.

6) Altitude and Mountain Ranges

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

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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).

Mountain ranges have two effects on the climate of the surrounding region. The first is
something called the rain shadow effect, which brings warm dry climate to the leeward size of a
mountain range, was described in the Earth’s Atmosphere chapter. The second effect
mountains have on climate systems is the ability to separate coastal regions from the rest of the
continent. Since a maritime air mass may have trouble rising over a mountain range, the coastal
area will have a maritime climate but the inland area on the leeward side will have a continental
climate.

3. INTER TROPICAL CONVERGENT ZONE

The inter tropical 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:- inter tropical
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 intertropica l convergence zone in January (in blue) and in July (in red).Source:
Wikicommons. Author Mats Halldin, 13 Dec 2006.

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3.1 CAUSE OF ITCZ

1. 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.

2. 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).

3. 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.

3.2 EFFECT OF ITCZ

1. Heavy Rainfall: The convergence of warm, moist air leads to intense precipitation, resulting
in tropical rainforests and high biodiversity in these regions.

2. 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
avalible for plant and animal species.

4. Agriculture: The climatic conditions can be beneficial for agriculture, but unpredictable
rainfall patterns can also lead to droughts or flooding, impacting food security.

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Eastern Asia, Atlantic, South American, Australia, South Africa countries get affected by this
inter tropical convergence 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 inter tropical coastal zone is crucial for itcz is
responsible for dry and wet season in tropics so by using that information we can predicting
weather patterns, managing ecosystems, and planning agricultural practices.

4. AN 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.
A.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.
B,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 Dashen 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.
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.
C, INTER TROPICAL CONVERGENT 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.

1.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.
2. BEGA (DRY SEASON): Spanning from October to February, the Bega season is characterized
by clear skies and cooler temperatures, particularly in the highlands.
3. 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.
D) PROXIMITY TO WATER BODIES

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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, 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 :-
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)

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. DESSERT 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).

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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

Climate change 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 rising average
temperatures. 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.

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:

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.

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:

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.

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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.

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:

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.

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:

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.

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:

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.

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:

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.

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.

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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:

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.

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.

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 heatwaves. 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 CONTROL METHODS FOR CLIMATE CHANGE IN ETHIOPIA

Addressing climate change in Ethiopia requires a multifaceted approach, involving both

mitigation and adaptation strategies:

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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, agroforestry, 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.

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.

5.5 MEASURES OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN ETHIOPIA

Climate change is measured by monitoring various indicators such as atmospheric carbon

dioxide concentrations, global average surface temperature, rising sea levels and acidifying
oceans, changes in the cryosphere, and extreme weather events. Some of them are:

1. Temperature Changes:

Ethiopia has seen an average annual temperature increase of about 1.3°C from 1960 to 2006.
Projections suggest further increases between 1.1 to 3.1°C by the 2060s.

2. Precipitation Patterns:

Rainfall has become more erratic, with a noted decrease in the March-May (Belg) rainy season
and an increase during the June-September (Kiremt) rainy season in some regions.

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3. Drought Frequency and Intensity:

The country has experienced more frequent and severe droughts, particularly affecting the
eastern and northern regions.

4. Glacial Retreat:

Glaciers in the Ethiopian highlands, such as those on Ras Dashen, are retreating, impacting
downstream water availability.

5. Vegetation Changes:

There have been shifts in vegetation zones and degradation of forests due to climate conditions
and human activities.

6. Water Resources:

Changes in river flows and lake levels have been observed, with some rivers experiencing
reduced flows and others becoming more variable.

7. Agricultural Productivity:

Decreases in crop yields and livestock productivity due to changing temperatures, precipitation
patterns, and increased pests and diseases.

8. Extreme Weather Events:

Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events like floods, causing significant
infrastructure and livelihood damage.

9. Sea Level Rise:

While Ethiopia is landlocked, regional sea level rise affects regional weather patterns and the
displacement of coastal populations.

10. Socio-Economic Impacts:

Climate change has led to increased food insecurity, migration, and conflicts over resources
due to stress on agriculture and water availability.

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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.

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 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.

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