Eastern African Rift (EARS)This geographical phenomenon, known as the Eastern African Rift (EARS), is believed to have initiated around 22 million years ago. The Eastern African Rift is a consequence of two tectonic plates – the Somali plate in the east and the Nubian plate in the west – slowly drifting apart. Macdonald believes that more such cracks will continue to appear due to the action of the Eastern African Rift. The Eastern African Rift, stretching from the Gulf of Aden in the north to Zimbabwe in the south, is a complex system of deep valleys, steep escarpments, and volcanic peaks. For now, the future course of the African continent’s tectonic journey remains a matter of speculation and scientific discovery.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 09, 2023 15:16 UTC