Addis Ababa, March 11, 2026 (FMC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called for urgent scientific mapping of Ethiopia’s vast natural and mineral resources after visiting the Nasiol Cave in eastern Ethiopia, describing the site as a striking symbol of the country’s untapped wealth and rich historical legacy.
During his recent tour of the cave in Melka Belo Woreda, East Hararghe Zone of the Oromia Region, the prime minister said the site provides critical insight into Ethiopia’s long history while highlighting enormous natural resources that remain largely unexplored.
Prime Minister Abiy personally hiked approximately 500 meters into the cave to witness its remarkable geological formations, noting the presence of multi-colored, marble-like stalactites and stalagmites. He described the cave as a unique natural wonder that merits detailed scientific documentation.
The premier also highlighted that the surrounding area contains valuable mineral resources, including marble, granite, and other high-value stones, which he characterized as largely untapped assets with significant development potential.
The visit formed part of a broader tour of eastern Ethiopia, during which Prime Minister Abiy inspected development projects and tourism sites across Dire Dawa City Administration, the Harari Region, and East Hararghe zone of Ethiopia’s Oromia region.
Despite existing infrastructure challenges in eastern regions, including the Somali and Harari regions, the prime minister emphasized that the area is rich in natural and historical attractions. He pointed to caves, wild horses, elephants, ancient stone stelae, and hot springs as examples of resources that remain insufficiently studied.
Prime Minister Abiy stressed that comprehensive scientific research and systematic resource mapping are urgently needed to unlock these assets for national development. He noted that properly studying Ethiopia’s natural heritage could strengthen tourism, generate economic opportunities, and improve livelihoods for local communities.
The premier further urged Ethiopian scholars, researchers, and institutions to lead the documentation of the country’s hidden resources, underlining the importance of producing “sovereign data.” He argued that relying on domestically generated research is essential for shaping national policies and development strategies grounded in Ethiopia’s own knowledge and realities.
According to the prime minister, ensuring data sovereignty and systematic resource mapping will be critical to transforming Ethiopia’s natural and historical wealth into sustainable economic growth.