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Oil Depoits Found In Ethiopia

The Ethiopian Mines and Energy Ministry announced that natural gas and oil deposits have been discovered in the Ogaden region, Derkele, Northern Somali State and Woreilu and Mchala in Abbay Basin. The head of projects in the ministry said that there were natural gas deposits. "This discovery was possible due to the natural movements on the earth surfaces which has exposed some elements similar to tar." Such signs are indicative of the presence of natural gas deposits. However, it is still difficult to estimate the volume of natural gas lying underground in these areas until a comprehensive study is conducted.

The government is reportedly conducting a feasibility study in the area to establish the extent of the oil deposits. Last year, vast deposits of natural gas were found in Gambella regional state and a Canadian company was contracted to do a survey on the 15,356 km area bordering Sudan. Its final report has not yet been submitted to the government.

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