Ethiopian speleologist Nasir Ahmed has revealed that his extensive research has led to the identification of 334 natural caves across the country.
As Ethiopia’s first speleologist and the second in Africa, Nasir has represented the continent internationally and earned recognition and an award in Germany.
Born in Kombolcha Woreda of East Hararghe Zone, Nasir told Addis Media Network Digital that he has gained extensive academic and professional training in France, Italy, and Germany. Despite having broad opportunities to live and work abroad, Nasir chose to return to Ethiopia, saying the country has only one specialist in the field and that he feels a responsibility to train and inspire thousands of young Ethiopians.
Currently, Nasir is engaged in research at the Oromia Culture and Tourism Bureau. His work includes the publication of Caves in Oromia, a book documenting more than 200 caves, and the identification of 133 rock inscriptions and drawings linked to ancient Oromo civilization.
The Speleologist has also completed a 350-page book about Sof Omar Cave as part of his academic work. According to studies conducted at a university laboratory in Taiwan have confirmed that the cave known as “Nasiol Cave,” located in Hararghe is millions of years old.
Highlighting the risks of the profession, Nasir noted that about 25 percent of cave researchers worldwide face life-threatening dangers, as the work demands exceptional physical endurance and courage.
According to Nasir, caves hold vital information for understanding ancient climate conditions and supporting agricultural researches in Ethiopia.
The Speleologist further said preparations are underway to register Sof Omar Cave as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Finally, Nasir has called on the government to give due attention to the sector by establishing a dedicated cave research institute and training center in Ethiopia.
By Derartu Teressa
