Metallogenic Evolution and Geologic Controls of Uranium Mineralization in Ethiopia: A Comprehensive Review

This review provides a systematic and critical synthesis of the state of knowledge on uranium metallogeny in Ethiopia. Employing a structured methodology, we compiled and analyzed data from peer-reviewed journals, geological surveys, and technical reports to construct a coherent geological framework for uranium mineralization in the country. The review establishes that uranium mineralization in Ethiopia is primarily hosted within three principal geotectonic domains: Neoproterozoic basement rocks of the Arabian-Nubian Shield, Paleozoic-Mesozoic sedimentary sequences, and Cenozoic volcanic and sedimentary formations associated with the East African Rift System. From these domains, we identify and characterize key deposit types, including intrusive-related occurrences within granitic bodies, volcanic and sub-volcanic deposits, sandstone-hosted stratiform accumulations, and surficial calcrete-style deposits. Each type exhibits distinct lithological, structural, and geochemical controls that govern ore formation and distribution. The metallogenic evolution of these deposits is shown to be intricately linked to major tectonic cycles: the Pan-African orogeny, which generated primary enrichments; subsequent Phanerozoic basin development, which facilitated sedimentary-hosted mineralization; and Cenozoic rift-related magmatism and hydrothermal activity, which remobilized and reconcentrated uranium in younger settings. A critical analysis of the existing literature reveals significant knowledge gaps that currently hinder comprehensive resource assessment. These deficiencies include a lack of precise geochronological constraints on mineralization events, a poor understanding of the thermodynamic and geochemical controls on uranium mobility in different host rocks, and insufficient data on the mineralogical factors that will ultimately affect process amenability and extraction. This synthesis underscores the considerable, yet underexplored, uranium potential of Ethiopia. By consolidating disparate information, it provides a robust geological framework designed to guide future exploration strategies and mineral processing research. The review concludes by emphasizing the critical need for an integrated geology-metallurgy approach in future resource assessment to ensure that exploration is both scientifically guided and economically viable.