Journal of African Earth Sciences, Vol. 14, No. I, pp.37-55, 1992. 0899-5362/92 $5.00+0.

00
Printed in Great Britain © 1992 Pergamon Press Ltd

The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic

rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia)

HAILUWORXUand KI~men~ YWA

Ethiopian Institute of Geological Surveys, P. O. Box 2302, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

(First received 9 November, 1989; revised form received 5 June, 1990)

Abstract - The Adola erea of Southern Ethiopia comprises two main tectono-stratigraphic units which have
undergone polyphase deformation and regimud metamorphism. The first one consists of an heterogeneous sequence
of high grade and complexly deformed gneisses which are intruded by syn- and post-tectonic granitoids; the second
unit COmlxises an extensive N-S trending volcano-sedimentmT sequence and ultrabasic rocks of greenachist to
amphibolite facies metamorphic grade and relatively simple deformation state. The contact between the two units is
usually extensively tectonized. Recent slrucmral analysis of the Adola Belt shows that: (1) the tectonic evolution
started with extensional faulting and development of basin into which volcano-sedimentary sequence and associated
ultrabasic suites were deposited, (2) the first stage compressional event led to the inversion of the Precambrian
sedimentary basin and development of thrust tectonics and associated folding phase with sub-horizontal axes end (3)
the late-stage in the tectonic evolution is dominated by N-S trending sub-vertical ductile strike-slip shear zones and
related sub-vertical folds. The thrust and strike-slip shear belts are up to 500 m wide and occur beth within the units
defmed above and along their boundaries reactivating previous N-S trending discontinuities. These reactivation
events locally segment the sequence into five fault-bound tectonic domains each with different deformation style.
The shear zones are characterized by the extensive development of mylonitic fault rocks which carry strong
superimposed stretching lineations indicating their respective tectonic transport directions. Sense of displacement in
all types of shear zones is indicated by shear criteria.
The field character of the belt suggests that it is underlain by sialic basement and that it developed from an ensialic
basin and not from Wilson cycle plate tectonic processes.

INTRODUCTION h a s b e e n published on their s t r u c t u r a l features

This paper p r e s e n t s a preliminary s t r u c t u r a l and
tectonic synthesis based on the reconnaissance
geological mapping of a n area of 2000 square
kilometers of the Adola Belt which is situated in
s o u t h e r n Ethiopia (Fig. la). This Belt, .forming a
N-S trending portion of Precambrian sedimentary
basin and affected by intense crustal scale s h e a r
zones t h a t extend for 150 k m along strike, a n d
bordered on their w e s t e r n a n d e a s t e m margins by
older gneisses, is one of the key Precambrian
regions in Ethiopia. The Precambrian of this region
is well developed a n d exposed a n d exhibits
complex deformation pattern. It is therefore a n
excellent area for fieldwork to e n h a n c e our under-
standing of the tectonic evolution of the Pre-
c a m b r i a n c r u s t in this region.
Mining c o m m e n c e d at Adola in the late 1930s
following t h e discovery of placer gold in t h e
Bedakessa valley. The economic importance of its
mineral wealth, particularly gold, h a s focused
considerable exploration in the area and as a
consequence led to the discovery of primary gold
deposits at various localities. Although m a n y
regional studies have been m a d e on the area, little
or their importance for u n d e r s t a n d i n g how to
integrate the stratigraphy with the s t r u c t u r a l
evolution a n d their implication on gold mineral-
ization. Apart from the post-graduate theses by
Gflboy (1970) and Chater (1971), the bulk of the
published a n d u n p u b l i s h e d work on the belt
h a s been provided by the Ethiopian Institute of
Geological Surveys a n d the Ethiopian Mineral
Resources Development Corporation. Gflboy (1970),
Chater (1971) and Kazmin (1972) were the first to
give general reviews of the s t r u c t u r a l elements of
the rocks and to establish, n a m e and, correlate the
three tectono-stratlgraphic groups (Lower, Middle
a n d Upper Complexes) out of which only two
(Middle and Upper Complexes) were recognized in
the Adola Belt. Earlier works on the Adola Belt
outline the characteristics of each complex a n d
their classification h e n c e these features are not
discussed in this paper in detail. However, there
h a s been little or no d o c u m e n t a t i o n on the sense
of movement, timing and tectonic implications
for movements on major s h e a r zones within and
along the margins of the Adola Belt. Between
1979 a n d 1982 revived i n t e r e s t in the belt,
particularly for gold mineralization, resulted in a

37
38 HAILUWORKUand KINETEBEBYIFA
slight modification of the details of the litho-
stratigraphy. The wide range oflitho-stratigraphic
association, diversity in structural styles and
v a r i a t i o n in m e t a m o r p h i c g r a d e a d d t h e
importance of the area as a source of gold. This
received attention from the Ethiopian Institute of
Geological Surveys (Project ETH/86/034) during
1986-89, who provided more updated geological
information in t e r m s of tectonics and tectonic
setting of mineral deposit. The m a i n purposes of
the present paper are therefore to:
1. systematically demonstrate the development of
regional s t r u c t u r a l p a t t e r n s resulting from
successively formed structures;
2. address the importance of rock association and
superimposed regional a n d local s t r u c t u r a l
patterns in t e r m s of tectonic position of the belt
and to provide more u p d a t e d a n d m o d e m
synthesis of the geology, and
3. correlate the sedimentary, volcanic, intrusive
and metamorphic events with the appropriate
stages of deformational history.
ROCK ASSOCIATIONS AND THEIR
STRUCTURAL FEATURES
The Adola Belt of S o u t h e m Ethiopia is character-
ized by rocks of the Precambrian sedimentary
basin, basic/ultrabasic rocks and older b a s e m e n t
gneisses with linear outcrop pattern (Fig. lb) and
forms crustal scale s h e a r zone that extends for
150 kin along its strike. The lithologies in the belt
display distinctly different, intense and complex,
m e d i u m to high grade tectonothermal histories,
including extensional, t h r u s t and strike-slip fault
development and emplacement of granitoids and
ultrabasic suites. The classification of the Adola
Belt into different tectonic blocks was provided by
the Adola Gold Exploration Project (1979-1982)
and this was later modified by Schmerold (1988),
who divided the Adola Belt into 5 lithostructural
units. These from west to east are: the Western
Basement, the Metavolcano-sedimentary Belt, the
Central Basement, the Ultrabasic Belt and the
Eastern Basement. The Western, Central and
Eastern Basements are extensive gneissic terrains
located along the western, central and eastern
margins of the Adola Belt and comprise gneisses
m e t a m o r p h o s e d to amphibolite facies and into
which have emplaced synkinematic granitoids.
The M e t a v o l c a n o - s e d i m e n t a r y Belt c o n t a i n s
basic- ultrabasic and sedimentary rocks which
have b e e n m e t a m o r p h o s e d to g r e e n s c h i s t to
amphibolite facies. The Ultrabasic Belt contains
ultrabasic rocks of varying composition emplaced
into the Central Basement. Owing to the presence
of these different tectonic blocks, the geology of
the area particularly the litho- a n d tectono-
straUgraphic correlation are so complex and is the
subject of continulng s t u d y both at the exploration
and research levels. This is partly due to limited
radiometric data which hinders proper correlation
of rock types with deformation episodes and meta-
morphic evolution. Like the previous works, this
paper deals with the regional correlations of rock
types based on distinctive rock association and
sequences, lithologic similarities and structural
features.
Although the regional deformation style and
mode of fabric development in the Adola Belt
seems homogeneous and uniform, considerable
variations occur depending on the deformational
domains u n d e r consideration. To describe the
overall r o c k a s s o c i a t i o n a n d t h e s t r u c t u r a l
evolution of this large a n d complicated area, the
area h a s been broken down into a n u m b e r of quasi-
homogeneous litho-structural units as suggested
by S c h m e r o l d (1988). However, as the t e r m
"basement" h a s got an age connotation where
there is no reliable age d e t e r m i n a t i o n s , the
a u t h o r s preferred to classibj the area in to domains
based on different patterns of deformation, meta-
morphism, volcanism, plutonism a n d sediment-
ation. The five domains described here are from
West to East;
1. The Western Gneissic Domain,
2. The Metavolcano-sedimentary Domain,
3. The BurJiJi-Gariboro Domain,
4. The Ultrabasic Domain and,
5. The Eastern Gneissic Domain.
The Western Gneissic Domain
The Western Gneissic Domain (Fig. lb) is made
up of interlayered b l o t i t e - h o m b l e n d e g n e i s s ,
amphibolite and quartzofeldspatic gneiss. Locally,
the biotite-hornblende gneisses show banding
and have a migmatitic appearance formed by
alternation of layers of different colours ranging in
width from a centimetre up to two metres, The
white neosome of the migmatites often show
gradational contacts with the host rock (melano-
some). The neosomes are folded due to later de-
formation episodes. The b a n d s generally strike
N-S a n d are conformable to the interlayered
amphibolites that range from a few tens of cenU-
metres to several m e t r e s in width. Less commonly,
larger bodies of amphibolite, a kilometre wide, are
present. Individual amphibolite layers c a n be
traced for considerable distance along strike where
outcrops are good, in some places up to 5 kin. Field
study revealed that the deformation intensity and
grade of m e t a m o r p h i s m in the biotite-hornblende
gneiss systematically vary across its strike (Fig. 2].
In the eastern part, t h e degree of deformation is
less intense t h a n at the strongly d e f o r m e d w e s t e m
margin w h e r e a s the degree of m e t a m o r p h i s m
 The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia) 39
• ,,, , i, _, ,

a) LEGEND

~MelovoIcono- Sediml~tory domoin

~ ISu+iii gorlboro (IomOirl

-

~--" p ~ ' ~ Ultrobosic dornoirl

\ ~,.<,°+< =+°<, ++,~--- -°, ,.-'

504~
b) ~ [-~,+ +,0<,
mllll "
~lJ., ~ Sl,ill - illp co,loci
,,j_ Foliotion tralnd (rllllonol)
BGO
2--~.'~'* goliolion in goriboro Qronite

)~0" ~-~ Stretching lineotiorl

•/ ~ ~ DiD Ot foliotion plone

t.

× ¥
o ~/

Fig. 2 ,,F_~ ~

ttaroq~so

~ J

3~4s' F~¢.5 / 3 r ~ ~ '

Fig. 1. The g~gmphical and geological scttlng'0f the'study area. a) Location n~ap shmvillg the dist~butlon of basement rocks
in Ethiopia and location of the study area. b) Generalized geological map of part of the Adola Belt showing the relationship
between the two major tectono-stratlgraphic subdivisions and the five deformational domains.
40 I'IjJLUWORKUand K a N m ~ Y ~ A
decreases from amphibolite to greenschist facies chlorite in the w e s t e m margin. Elliptical areas,
as the western contact i s approached. This is 200 m wide and 2 k m long, of more homogeneous,
s u p p o r t e d by microscopic s t u d y which reveals gneissic quartz diorite are found aligned with their
mineralogical paragenessis of biotite and horn- long axis parallel to the s u r r o u n d i n g basic meta-
blende in the eastern part and muscovite and volcardcs (Fig. 2),

LEGEND
['U-~ Ultrabasic
- ~ GrQphificschist
I
~Meta -votcanlcs ~cole
0 Ikm
~t'-] Granite
(3o
~ Quortz.Diorite
~--~ Amphibolite e/, ov /
~ Quertzofeldspothicgneiss
~ Sheored quortz-diorite
Muscovite schist
-~ Tectonic contoct J I

Lith o c co.toct
FJ-'~Foliotion plone " ~ /
/
80

e,f.

eX) ~ ~70
/~75 srf

s~ 72

srf
e bh 65~

Fig. 2. Geologicalmapof the D/gat/area show/ngthe relaUonsh/p betweendifferent rock association and d©format/onal eatures.
 The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia) 41
The amphibolites are also f o u n d intercalating processes. The s h e a r zone is almost invariably
with t h e quartzofeldspatic gneiss which is also i n v a d e d b y q u a r t z v e i n s a n d s y n - k l n e n m t l c
trending in a N-S direction. In t h e Alghe area, p e g m a t i t e s w h i c h are m o s t l y d e f o r m e d t h e m -
t h e quartzofeldspatic g n e i s s a n d i n t e r c a l a t e d selves. Field s t u d i e s revealed t h a t the m o v e m e n t
amphibolites are folded together forming a kilo- sense associated with t h e earlier mylonite is thrust-
metre scale synformal fold s t r u c t u r e with a fold ing with eastward tectonic t r a n s p o r t while t h e later
axis p l u n g i n g steeply (in t h e order of 80 - 85 °) to t h e one is f o u n d to be slnistral strlke-sllp as indicated
s o u t h a n d vertical axial plane (Fig. 2). A r o u n d t h e by rotated earlier foliation (which swing d u e west
hinge o f t h l s fold, there is a n occurrence of granitic in t h e s o u t h e r n p a r t a n d s m e a r e d o u t in to
i n t r u s i o n w h i c h d i s r u p t e t h e c o n t i n u i t y of parallelism with t h e s h e a r zone as t h e s h e a r zone
t h e folded amphibolite rock to t h e n o r t h of t h e is approached) (Fig. lb) a n d a s y m m e t r y of folds. At
observed closure (Fig. 2}. Dlgati area, the distribution of different types of
Outcrop scale s t r u c t u r a l features in the Western fault rocks is h e t e r o g e n e o u s . G r a d a t i o n from
Gneissic D o m a i n include m e t a m o r p h i c foliation mylonitlc gneiss into platy mylonltes are c o m m o n .
(S~) a n d m i n o r F z folds which plunge to t h e s o u t h Cross-cutting relations are c o m m o n l y observed,
with nearly sub-vertical axes. the platy mylonite cutting the mylonitic gneiss
The c o n t a c t b e t w e e n t h e W e s t e r n Gneissic which indicates reworklng of t h e mylonitic gneiss
Domain and the Metavolcano-sedimentary during later platy mylonite development. The east-
D o m a i n is tectonic (Fig. lb) with penetrative de- e m m a r g i n of t h e Digati-Meleka s h e a r zone is
formation in b o t h terrains a c c o m p a n i e d by in- m a r k e d by strong dilation a n d development of
complete retrogration of amphibolite facies meta- a u r i f e r o u s q u a r t z v e i n s all along its length,
m o r p h i s m to greenschist in t h e Western Gneissic particularly s o u t h of Dawa river. In addition, this
D o m a i n a n d prograde greenschist facies in t h e contact is m a r k e d by small bodies of ultramafic-
Metavolcano-sedimentary Domain. This tectonic rocks which are elongated parallel to t h e regional
contact, hereaRer called the Digati-Meleka s h e a r lithology.
zone, is t h e p r o m i n e n t s h e a r zone w h i c h is
represented by s h e a r e d muscovite schist a n d is The Metavolcano-sedimentary Domain
m o r e developed along t h e w e s t e r n m a r g i n of the In t h e Adola Belt, t h e s e d i m e n t a r y a n d volcanic
biotite-hornblende gneiss. The zone strikes N 10°E deposits o c c u p y distinctive b a s i n s limited to t h e
at its type locality (Digati area) a n d swings d u e west Megado Belt a n d consists ofbasic-ultrabasic rocks,
in Aflata river area (Fig. Ib). phyllites, m e t a s a n d s t o n e s a n d metaconglomerate.
In t h e Digati area, two broad g r o u p s ofmylonites Basic metavolcanics in t h e Adola Belt extend
c a n be identified; the first group comprises a u g e n t h r o u g h o u t the length of t h e belt along a N-S
mylonite of amphibolite grade m e t a m o r p h i c facies trending distinct zone a n d s h o w mineralogical
(biotite-amphibole mylonitic gneiss), w h e r e a s t h e p a r a g e n e s is and textural variation which
s e c o n d g r o u p of mylonite c o m p r i s e s low green- indicate m e t a m o r p h i c grade from greenschist to
schist grade phyllonite or platy mylonite resulting amphibolite facies. Basic metavolcantcs t h a t are
from the development of chlorite a n d muscovite in m e t a m o r p h o s e d into amphibolite in Aflata area
the s h e a r zone. Field observation indicates t h a t t h e were f o u n d to c o n t i n u e into basic volcanics
Digati-Meleka s h e a r zone h a s diffuse boundaries, m e t a m o r p h o s e d to g r e e n s c h i s t facies in t h e
a n d t h a t large areas ofgneisses on either side have n o r t h e r n part of t h e Adola Belt, particularly to
similar mylonitic fabrics (mylonitic gneiss) b u t the n o r t h of Dawa river. The amphibolltes are
with decreasing intensity o u t w a r d s a n d n o r t h w a r d markedly schistose, black hornblende-labradorite
along its strike. These marginal areas provide garnetiferous rocks with m i n o r quartz c o n t e n t
important information on earlier deformation phase while the basic metavolcanics in the n o r t h e r n p a r t
a n d illustrate h o w earlier fabrics become modified are mainly m a d e of chlorite a n d actinolite with
by later tectonic events which took place in lower sporadic distribution of garnet. The occasional
greenschist facies m e t a m o r p h i s m at relatively high thin b a n d i n g observed in the amphibolites a n d
crustal levels. This is s u p p o r t e d by development of their irregular composition suggest strong de-
recrystallized clay gouges a n d semi-ductile m i n o r formation of pyroclasts in these rocks b u t t r u e
s t r u c t u r e s which were only found associated with volcanic s t r u c t u r e s s u c h as volcanic b o m b s a n d
late-stage mylonite. The r e l a t i o n s h i p b e t w e e n elongated pyroclasts were also observed. The basic
different g r o u p s of mylonite c a n also be ascertain- metavolcanics always show conformable struc-
ed by cross-cutUng, nearly parallel n o r t h - s o u t h tural c o n t a c t s t h a t s h o w steep dip a n d their
trending foliation p l a n e s a n d quartz veins. De- eastern m a r g i n s are m a r k e d by ultrabasic rocks.
formation m e c h a n i s m in this zone involves brittle The ultrabasic rocks associated with t h e meta-
fracturing of t h e m o r e c o m p e t e n t mineral p h a s e v o l c a n o - s e d i m e n t a r y s e q u e n c e f o r m a N-S
(such as feldspar) along with crystal plastic trending linear zone a n d occur as structurally
42 HAILU WoRKU and ~ N m ~ YIFA

modified a n d boudined lenses, extensively altered Thick (2 - 5 k m thick) phyUites a n d graphitic

into serpentinite, talc-schist and talc-tremolite
schist (Fig. 3). At their margins, particularly near
the intense tectonic contact, the ultrabasics are
invariably altered into talc-chlorlte schist and
appear to have formed a lubrication zone during
subset u e n t deformation episodes.
5 ° 45'
layers are found in the Megado Metavolcano-
s e d i m e n t a r y Domain. The phyllites consist of
alternating siliceous (cherty) a n d graphitic layers
usually less t h a n 5 m thick. At some localities the
phyllites contain spots of variable slze m a d e up of
mica aggregates. In areas where the deformation is
LEGEND

WGDI Western oneissic domain

I i MVSDI
BGDI
"U B DI
Meta volcono-sedimentory domoin
Burjiji -Goriboro domoin
Ultrobosic domoin

0)'
EGDt Eostem gneissic domoin
U | t r o b o s i c rocks
Gronitic rocks
Thrust contoct
Strike slip contoct
Tectonic contoct with unknown sense

Scale

b
Me~]odo
o, | I
6km
J

genticho
5o30"

sub-belt

BGD

• WGO ~MVSD
,o i / -gBiRr# / . 0

/ ,i

i i

\
it 1

\
\t?', i

L ¢ ¢ 7 uun,,, x ~ T ~ ~ ~ .J5 ° 09'

38 ° 45' 30 ° 55' 3 9 ° 0 5'

Fig. 3. Geological map of part of the Adola Belt showing the relationship between the distribution of ultrabasie rocks and
major tectonic boundaries.
 The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia)
less intense, they occur as circular patches but in
a strongly deformed area, they show elongation
with their long axes slightly oblique to the regional
lithologic layering.
Inter-formational polymictic metaconglomerate
is encountered in the central part of the Meta-
volcano-sedlmentary Domain in association with
arkosic m e t a s a n d s t o n e and graphitic quartzite.
The pebbles of the metaconglomerate inclu de basic
metavolcanics, ultrabasic rocks, phyllites, and
vein quartz embedded in sericite rich matrix. The
pebbles of the KaJlmiti metaconglomerate show
N-S elongation direction and flattened during
development of S=. Although m a n y pebbles have
b e e n substantially deformed, the vein quartz
a p p e a r s to h a v e b e e n p r e d o m i n a n t l y s u b -
spherical a n d moderately to very rounded. The
ultrabasic and basic volcano pebbles originating
from the meta-ultrabasic and the metabasic rocks
are frequently very elongated and mylonitized into
chlorite-talc schists in a sericite-quartz matrix. An
oligomictic metaconglomerate with very rounded
vein quartz pebbles are also a b u n d a n t . This variety
of metaconglomerate and metasandstone shows
primary s e d i m e n t a r y features s u c h as cross-
bedding and gradded bedding both indicating
younging direction towards east at this particular
locality.
The m e t a c o n g l o m e r a t e s a n d the m e t a s a n d -
stones occur alternatively as thin beds (Fig. 4). The
relationship between the orientation of primary
Fig. 4. Alternating beds of metaconglomerate and metasandstone showing elongation of conglomerate elasts oblique to the
orientation of the bedding, KaJlmiti (plan view).
43
bedding and elongation of conglomerate clasts is
oblique indicating that the combined S~.=follaUons
developed at slightly different angle to the primary
bedding.
The Metavolcano-sedlmentary Domain generally
constitutes easily deformable and mobile rocks
which are m e t a m o r p h o s e d to greenschist facies
conditions. Tectonic intercalation of higher grade
rocks, particularly amphtbolltes a n d quartzo-
feldspatlc gnelsses with these low grade rocks are
also common.
Deformation fabrics in these rocks are more
difficult to recognize in the field because of their
theology which commonly m a s k s most earlier
deformation fabrics. However, field observation
clearly revealed t h a t the rocks in this belt (with the
exception of KaJlmlU metaconglomerate a n d meta-
sandstone) are affected by three folding phases
and led to the development of associated foliatlons
which shows oblique relationships in some places.
The change in dip direction of the S Osurfaces in the
belt and the confinement ofthe sedimentary rocks
(phyllites} in between the metavolcanics suggest
that the F~ folding event is responsible for the N-S
mega folds. Primary bedding and S~ surfaces in the
Metavolcano-sedimentary Domain are deformed
by steeply southward plunging F 2 folds. Where S 2
surfaces and associated F 2 folds developed perpen-
dicular to the earlier S~ surfaces, L-S tectonite with
a well developed lineation (on every face of the
rectangular block) is evident. On the surfaces of
 HAILUWORKUaBd KINETEBEBYIFA
the rectangular blocks, garnet crystals are highly
elongated a n d m a r k a well developed s t r e t c h ~
lineation. This lineation is parallel to the F 2 fold
axes. The fold style is mainly of fluxeral slip type
and en echelon veins marking the direction of
slip is well developed. Dismembered isoclinal folds
and tra_nsposiUon of compositional layering which
locally accompanies this folding phase indicates
t h a t g r e a t s t r a i n a c c o m p a n i e d F 2. O u t c r o p
evidence for the third folding phase was not found
but the presence of this folding event is deduced
from the regional swing of the foliation surfaces
and regional s h e a r boundaries.
The b o u n d a r y of the Metavolcano-sedimentary
Domaln and the BurJiji-Gariboro Domain, here
after n a m e d as the Lega Dembi-Aflata s h e a r zone,
is also a tectonic contact which separates the
Metavolcano-sedimentaryDomain to the east from
the BurJiJi-Gariboro Domain to the west (Fig. Ib).
This tectonic contact shows several reactivation
events. Although t h e exact timing is unclear, it
seems to be a n extensional fault which b o u n d s the
P r e c a m b r i a n s e d i m e n t a r y basin. This c a n be
deduced from the localization of the metavolcano-
sedimentary sequence to the west of this contact.
During basin closures, the movement m a y be
initiated along the same b o u n d a r y a n d east-
directed thrusting is deduced from F~ fold vergence
and ubiquitous stretching lineation observed in
the s u r r o u n d i n g rocks. The late stage in the
tectonic evolution of this major fault is dominated
by strike-slip shear. The sheared rocks include
metavolcanics, biotite schists, talc chlorite schist
and some quartzofeldspatic gneiss. Movement
sense indicators, s u c h as a s y m m e t r y of folds
a n d S-C f a b r i c s w e r e e x a m i n e d at several
localities (Aflata, Meracha, Bursano and I ~ g a
Dembi) clearly indicate that the shearing in this
zone is accommodated by a transtensional strike-
slip s h e a r of sinlstral sense. This is supported
b y t h e o r i e n t a t i o n of s t r e t c h i n g l i n e a t i o n
which plunges moderately to the south indicating
tectonic transport southwards.
The Burjiji-Gariboro Domain
The extensive rocks forming the Burjiji-Gariboro
Domain are the biotite schist and intercalated
quartzofeldspatic gneiss and amphibolite which
extend from the e a s t e r n b o u n d a r y of the Meta-
v o l c a n o - s e d i m e n t a r y D o m a i n to the w e s t e r n
margin of the Ultrabasic Domain. In between the
biotite schist, there are homogeneous, m e d i u m to
coarse grained biotite granites of Gariboro and
Burjiji which builds a series of elliptical, discrete
d o m e s showing elongation in a n o r t h - s o u t h
direction (Fig. lb). Individual domes are separated
from each other by screens of intensely deformed
bioUte gneiss. Around the flanks of the domes
the granites are highly foliated and develop a
c o n s p i c u o u s gneissic fabric t h a t follows the
elliptical shape of the individual domes. Foliatlons
are less distinct towards the centre of the granitic
bodies but NW trending fracture patterns are
prominent.
The dominant s t r u c t u r e s of the Garlboro-BurJiJi
domaln are the approximately I k m wide Gariboro
s h e a r zone, the meso and m a c r o folds developed
in the Gariboro granite and a r o u n d BurJiJi and
S-surfaces a n d associated folds.
The Gariboro s h e a r zone [Fig. Ib) which develop-
ed along the margin of the Gariboro granitic
intrusion and separates the intrusion from the
biotite schist to the east and west contains a nearly
vertical foliation. In the western part of Gariboro,
this shear zone contains a sub-horlzontal
stretching lineation and movement sense criteria
mainly expressed by fold asyrmnetry and asym-
m e t r y of rotated porphyroblasts indicate sinlstral
strike-slip displacement with m i n o r east-block-up
dip slip component probably indicating the rising
of the Gariboro granite syntectontcally with the
development of t h e s h e a r zone. The margins of
the Gariboro and BurjiJi granites, m a r k e d by
g n i e s s o s e q u a r t z o f e l d s p a t h i c g n e i s s a n d its
tectonic position show incorporation of Gariboro
granite into the Gariboro s h e a r zone and rework-
ing of the granite margin by the s h e a r zone
presumably developed during the emplacement of
the granitic body. Associated with this shear-
ing are developed steeply southward plunging
asymmetric (sinistral) F2 folds. In addition, in the
western margin, the Gariboro granite it self is
folded and t r u n c a t e d along the N-S trending
Gariboro s h e a r zone with the major fold asym-
metry supporting sinistral sense of s h e a r (Fig. 5).
The rocks between the Gariboro s h e a r zone a n d the
Lega Dembi-Aflata s h e a r zones are less deformed
with no development of a u g e n but northerly
trending foliation is normally present.
The Burjijigranite antiform (Fig. i b a n d 5) is one
of the prominent regional fold s t r u c t u r e s that
affects the biotite amphibole schist and BurJiJi
granite itself. It plunges to the NNW at about 40 °.
At the fold hinge, between the neutral surface and
the neutral point, the fabric a r o u n d the BurjiJi
granite lie sub-parallel to the competent BurJiJi
granite instead of being axial planar (Fig. 5).
Cleavages and fabrics having s u c h relationships
are particularly good evidence of s y n c h r o n o u s
development of the fold and the fabric and of the
fact that s u c h fabric lie approximately parallel to
the local flattening plane. Close to the BurJiJi
granite margin lineations plunge steepen in all
directions and are consistent with the interference
of the rising granitic b o d y
In the n o r t h e r n part of the Burjiji-Gariboro
 The tectonic evohtion of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (SouthernEthiopia) 45

LEGEN@

”
Grophotic quartizita

f
Gt Granite Gt
cl

Scale
O- Ihrn

l-l
fi Follotion plane

lrrr Shear zone

NP- Neutral point

NS. Neutral surface Gt

Gt

Fig. 6. Geologtcal mapof the Bwjiji-Garlbom area showing the relationship between the granMc bathokha and adjacemt
deformation features.
Domain, structures of deformation D, include crenulation cleavage are developed parallel to
pervasive shallowly dipping, N-S striking S, the fold axial traces. Although the fold axial
foliation and down-dip (E-W) plunging stretching trace orientation of this folding event remains
lineation. The shallowly dipping S, surface is an approximately E-W in all scales. the orientation
&al plane foliation of the minor recumbent folds E
41
whose asymmetry indicates eastward tectonic
transport. These recumbent F, folds were recorded
particularly along the Mormora River section and
around Bursano (Fig. 61.
Subvertical southward plunging F, folds were
recorded in locahzed settings along the shear
contacts between dHerent lithologic umts. These
folds are marked by folded quarts and pegmatfte
veins and show sinfstral and dextral asymmetries
in plan view indicating that they are the result of
horizontal movement.
The most noticeable effect of the third deform-
ation has been to produce deviation of up to 45” f.n
the general consistent N-S Adola strike, where the
E-W trending major cross folds produced during
the third deformation deform the preexisting
N-S trending S,,. S, and S, surfaces (Fig. 7). Even
though minor folds produced during this deform-
I J
Fig. 6. Sketches showing F, folds in Adola areaz a) Recumbent
ation are not particularly common, open folds with F, fold in Bureano area being folded by folds of later gznemtions.
the same geometry as the regional ones occur and b) Recumbent asymmetric F, fold in Monnora river showing
in some exposures a fracture cleavage and spaced tectonic transport to the east. Both sections are E-W
section viewing northwards.
46 HAILUWORKUand KII~-re.~EB YIFA

and plunge magnitude of the fold axes depend on

the initial dip of the surface being folded. In areas
where the initial surface is shallowly dipping, a
shallowly plunging fold axis is generated, whereas
in areas of initially steep fabric dip, steep axes are
formed.
The c o n t a c t b e t w e e n the BurJiJi-Gariboro
Domain and the Ultrabasic Domain is tectonic and
shows variable characteristics along its strike.
In the southern part, along the margin of the
Gariboro granitic intrusion, this contact is steeply
dipping and invariably invaded by quartz and
pegmatitic veins which, during subsequent shear-
ing, have been stretched along the strike, bounded
and contain asymmetric augen that s h o w both
dextral and sinistral strike-slip motion w h e n
viewed in plan (Fig. 8). Furthermore, this contact
is characterized by phyUosflicate rich mylonite all
along its strike. In the northern part, this contact
dips gently to the east and the asymmetry of folds
and other kinematic indicators indicate westward
tectonic transport contrary to the general east-
ward tectonic transport (Fig. ib).

The IJ'Itarb~IcD o m a i n
The uRramafic complex of the Kenticha Belt
(Fig. 3) has been cmplaced along several N-S
trending zones into the biotite schist and consist
of talc-schist, talc-tremolite schist and
serpentinites. Unlike the mafic-ultramafic rocks of
~ t

the Megado BcR, the uRrabasics in the Kcntlcha

Belt are not extensively associated with volcanic
rocks and deep sea sediments.

LEGEND

-- --- ~ Epidot e- oml~nibole gneiss

- ~ 8i0tite scnllt
~ Quortzo- f etdltpaffic gneiss
~ Amphlbolite

-~ . . . . . . Lr~--~L ithologic c=toc,

~ Fold oxie
'70liotion plone

o ~hm
]

Fig. 8. a} Asynmletrlc pegmatite vein showing sinistral sense

of movement, nOrth of Katawicha ridge.
b) Sinistral fold supporting sinistral sense of movement
depicted by asymmetric veins, north of Katawlcha ridge.
Fig. 7. F~ fold in Gariboro-BurjiJl domain reflected by c} Asymmetric pcgrnatitc vein showing dextral sense of
swinging of the consistent Adola strike. North Gariboro. movement, south of Katawlcha ridge.
 The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia) 47
The contact between t h e Ultrabasic Belt a n d the fold axes a n d m o d e r a t e to steep axial planes.
E a s t e r n Gneissic D o m a i n is steeply dipping a n d Associated with these folds are, n u m e r o u s dis-
exhibit wen developed mylonitic fabric. Associated h a r m o n i c m i n o r folds of leucocratic b a n d s (neo-
with this tectonic b o u n d a r y , F 2 folds with sub- some) in t h e granodioritic gneiss, with axial plane
horizontal fold axes are well developed a n d t h e orientation ranging from sub-horlzontal to sub-
a s y m m e t r y o f t h e s e folds s h o w a tectonic t r a n s p o r t vertical. TWo low-angle t h r u s t s were observed in
to t h e east indicating t h a t this tectonic b o u n d a r y this domain: one in t h e migmatlzed biotite gneiss
is a t h r u s t contact (Fig. Ib). a n d t h e other at t h e contact between t h e E a s t e r n
Gneissic D o m a i n a n d t h e biotite schist belonging
T h e E a s t e r n Gneissl© D o m a i n to BurJiJi-Gariboro Domain. It is proposed t h a t
The E a s t e r n Gneissic D o m a t n is c o m p o s e d of t h e s e two t h r u s t s J oin at d e p t h a n d enclose a horse
two m a i n gneiss groups, namely: the intensely m a d e u p of quartzofeldspatic gneiss. F a u l t - b e n d
m i g m a t i z e d granodioritic g n e i s s a n d quartzo- folds with horizontal axis are a b u n d a n t adjacent to
feldspatic gneiss b o t h of which are i n t r u d e d by these s h e a r zones; t h e s e are considered to be F 2
syn-tectonic granites a n d pegmatites. There are folds a n d r e p r e s e n t a n extreme evolution of t h e
two m a i n facies of t h e granodioritic gneiss, one earlier deformation event.
d a r k e r a n d t h e o t h e r paler, t h e variation being In this domain, there are several features which
d u e to t h e relative a b u n d a n c e of biotite a n d indicate eastward t h r u s t transport. These include
h o r n b l e n d e . B o t h t h e d a r k e r a n d t h e p a l e r west plunging stretching lineation a n d geometry of
varieties of t h e granodioritic gneiss are variable m i n o r s t r u c t u r e s observed in the fault rocks. The
in composition comprising tonalitic, pegmatitic fault rock associated with t h e t h r u s t i n g event is
a n d biotite or amphibole-rich layers. C o n c o r d a n t progressively a n d strongly deformed towards t h e
pegmatites are a b u n d a n t a n d m a y be interpreted footwall, w h e r e mylonitic fabric r e d u n d a n t is
as injected or fn s/tu partial melting products. expressed by fracturing of feldspar p h e n o c r y s t s
Discordant pegnmtites, which c u t the c o n c o r d a n t a n d dynamic recrystan~ation of quartz. Figure 9
p e g r n a t i t e s are locally a b u n d a n t . T h e o l d e r shows a progressive c h a n g e in grain size asso-
pegmatite veins are u b i q u i t o u s a n d strike parallel ciated with m i n o r imbricate t h r u s t s in Tltu river as
to t h e regional foliation, being folded by t h e the t h r u s t plane is approached. The progressive
y o u n g e r fold f o r m i n g p h a s e s . T h e y o u n g e r stages of mylonitization preserved in this t h r u s t
discordant veins dip mederately towards north- provide a good opportunity for a s t u d y of deforma-
west a n d are t h i c k e r (up to 3 metres). They are tion process acting during t h r u s t tectonics. The
widely s p a c e d a n d straight. Agmatized, scattered t o p m o s t p a r t of this imbricate t h r u s t zone is
pods, enclaves, a n d c o n c o r d a n t amphibolites are m a r k e d by folds with sub-horizontal axes (oriented
c o m m o n in this gneiss both at t h e local a n d m a p p e r p e n d i c u l a r to t h e tectonic t r a n s p o r t direction)
scale. a n d well preserved initial fabric b u t as the t h r u s t
The quartzofeldspatic gneiss in this part of the plane is approached, t h e initial fabric is rotated
belt is fine grained a n d strongly schistose. It is a parallel to the t h r u s t plane a n d in s o m e cases
s o u t h w a r d c o n t i n u a t i o n of the Alghe gneiss which completely obliterated a n d ultramylonitic fault
is exposed to t h e west of Wadera village. rock is developed.
Deformed granite p o r p h r y dikes, 1 - 3 k m thick The b e h a v i o u r of feldspar p h e n o c ~ s t s in this
a n d t r e n d i n g n o r t h - s o u t h , occur m o r e or less mylonite was m a i n l y brittle. Two types of frac-
c o n c o r d a n t l y w i t h t h e r e g i o n a l S - s u r f a c e s turing c a n be distinguished:
(Fig. Ib). Near t h e c o n t a c t s t h e rocks are fine 1. rotation-induced fracturing where t h e crystal
grained a n d display a strong foliation (lamination). w a s oriented oblique to the foliation; a n d
On a c c o u n t of mineralogy a n d s t r u c t u r e these 2. extensional fracturing a n d pulling apart of the
dykes are considered to be a p o p h y s e s emplaced f r a g m e n t s where crystals were parallel to the
during t h e extensive syn S 2 deformation event in foliation.
the area.
D o m i n a n t s t r u c t u r a l features of these rocks are METAMORPHIC PARAGENESIS
m e t a m o r p h i c f o l i a t i o n S~, s u b - h o r l z o n t a l l y -
p l u n g i n g F 2 folds a n d a s s o c i a t e d m a j o r s h e a r Textural relations allow t h e relative sequence of
zones. At least three p h a s e s of deformation have stable mineral assemblages to be inferred for t h e
b e e n established in t h e E a s t e r n Gneissic Domain. Adola Belt b u t ambiguity exists regarding the
T h e e a r l i e s t r e c o g n i z a b l e d e f o r m a t i o n , D~, a s s i g n m e n t of particular p h a s e assemblages to
p r o d u c e d r e c u m b e n t F~ folds a n d a s s o c i a t e d specific m e t a m o r p h i c events. This is b e c a u s e
p e n e t r a t i v e foliation, S~, m a r k e d by g n e i s s i c different mineral p h a s e a s s e m b l a g e s could be
b a n d i n g in granodioritic gneiss. This foliation is formed during t h e s a m e m e t a m o r p h i c event a n d
deformed by isoclinal F 2 folds with sub-horlzontal the s a m e a s s e m b l a g e s could be formed d u r i n g
48 HAn.u WORKU and K_)NErEBF~YIFA
' I II/ / II i /
--~ ~_f~ . --'- ~.i.
- 1
/
/ - // ~--~ . - . ~"i--.~. - ~ f - ~- - ~
Fig. 9. Outcrop-scale imbricate thrust showing systematic change in texture of the fault rock, Katawicha. Direction of view is
northwards.
different m e t a m o r p h i c event. But in areas where
sparse radiometric data are available (such as in
Alghe area} granulite rocks are exclusively of
Archaean age (Kazmin, 1972). Amphibolite facies
assemblages are developed in rocks as y o u n g as
early Proterozoic a n d low grade greenschist grade
recrystAlllz-ation h a s affected the metavolcano-
s e d i m e n t a r y s u c c e s s i o n (Kazmin, 1972; this
work). The earliest p h a s e compatibility preserved
includes pyroxene-bearing granulite rocks in the
Alghe gneiss (I¢azrnin, 1972). Several, metapellite
rocks in g n e i s s e s of t h e Adola area c o n t a i n
silllmanite, staurolite, kyanite a n d / o r garnet, while
the mafic rocks c o n t a i n garnet. Except for olivine
relict in metaserpentinite, ultramafic assemblages
a p p e a r to reflect h i g h e r g r e e n s c h i s t f a c i e s
condition of recrystallization a n d metavolcano-
sedimentary rocks of the Megado Belt contains
mineral p a r a g e n e s e s indicating greenschist facies
conditions.
All rocks m e t a m o r p h o s e d u n d e r high grade
conditions during late Archean time have been
overprinted by m i d - g r e e n s c h i s t facies mineral
assemblages, having b e e n variably retrograded
during Proterozoic m e t a m o r p h i s m . Distinct para-
genetic s e q u e n c e s in m e t a m o r p h i c mineral assem-
blages are recognized for several rock types.
Sillimanite, kyanite, staurolite and garnet seem
to have b e e n p r o d u c e d only d u r i n g the old
(amphibolite facies assembladge) recrystallization
event, i n a s m u c h as comparable assemblages have
not been recorded in any chemically comparable
y o u n g e r units. In lithologies affected by the later
deformations, nearly ubiquitous plagioclase is more
albitic a n d coexisting amphibole concomitantly
" -"I.- /I I ~ ~ ' - i ~ - - - X i
/ JY .......... 11 ~ ........................
- ................................... -
.... ........
.....................
c h a n g e s from h o r n b l e n d e to actinolite.
The contact between the gneiss complex and
rocks of the s e d i m e n t a r y b a s i n is found to be
t e c t o n i c w h i c h b r o u g h t j u x t a p o s i t i o n of t h e
gneisses with basic volcanics o f g r e e n s c h i s t facies
m e t a m o r p h i c condition. O n t h e s o u t h w e s t e r n flank
of t h e Adola Belt t h e gneisses a n d t h e j u x t a p o s e d
basic volcanics have b e e n strongly deformed and
rotated E-W. The variation in m e t a m o r p h i c grade
suggests t h a t either a large vertical d i s p l a c e m e n t
h a s occurred along the faulted b o u n d a r i e s or a
considerable geothermal gradient (if smaller dis-
placement is envisaged) existed.
TECTONIC EVOLUTION
In recent years, s t r u c t u r a l investigations have
mainly c o n c e n t r a t e d on folding events with little
attention to the m a i n shearing or faulting p h a s e s
which are the m o s t i m p o r t a n t events for character-
izing the tectonic evolution of the Adola Belt. This
section, is aimed at establishing the relationship
between m i n o r a n d major s t r u c t u r e s with respect
to their location and their tectonic implications.
Field evidence of polyphase deformation h a s been
provided by previous workers b u t a correlation of
folding p h a s e with the shearing events was never
attempted.
Although detailed s t r u c t u r a l analysis within the
belt is incomplete at present, local a n d regional
s h e a r zones, major a n d m i n o r folds which might
give clue about the n a t u r e of deformation within
the area are well exposed a n d have b e e n examined
at various localities. It was found that t h e geometry
of folds a n d the relationship between folding a n d
 The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia)
shearing d e p e n d o n t h e s u b - a r e a s u n d e r consider-
ation. However, all deformational d o m a i n s were
affected by three folding p h a s e s as described
earlier.
Although t h e relationship a m o n g m i n o r struc-
t u r e s is well c o n s t r a i n e d at a n y one locality,
u n d e r s t a n d i n g t h e regional scale s t r u c t u r a l
setting of the Adola Belt a n d h e n c e its evolution
is restricted by a severe s h o r t a g e of d a t a in
the n o r t h e r n part of t h e belt. In the s o u t h e r n
part, particularly in Dawa-Digati a n d Katawicha
areas, a wealth of s t r u c t u r a l data were obtained
from excellent exposures; in t h e n o r t h e r n part,
particularly in t h e Lega Dembi area, d a t a are
continually being g e n e r a t e d from adits a n d drill
holes. However, there is very little from the re
m a i n d e r of t h e n o r t h e r n part. Outcrop is generally
poor a n d m u c h of t h e geology is o b s c u r e d by t h i c k
o v e r b u r d e n a n d vegetation. There are only sparse
d a t a available to define the positions of major
s h e a r zones or stratlgraphic u n i t s outside of the
Lega Dembi m i n i n g site. However, o u r knowledge
of t h e orientation a n d d i s p l a c e m e n t sense of m a n y
of the s h e a r zones is well c o n s t r a i n e d in the
s o u t h e r n p a r t a n d t h e s t r u c t u r a l setting could be
d e d u c e d from this area a n d from sparse data
available in t h e n o r t h e r n part.
Three a s p e c t s of regional tectonics have b e e n
c h o s e n to illustrate the type of large-scale de-
formation p r e s e n t in t h e Adola Belt: firstly, t h e
extensional tectonics of the Megado a n d Kenticha
sub-belts, secondly, t h e t h i c k - s k i n n e d t h r u s t
tectonics which pervades t h e entire Adola Belt;
thirdly, the development of strike-slip m o v e m e n t
in localized settings within the Adola Belt a n d
along its margins.
F r o m t h e distribution of t h e volcano-sedimenta-
ry sequence, which is b o u n d e d on its m a r g i n s by
deep crustal s h e a r zones, it is inferred t h a t t h e
deformation sequence was initiated by extensional
faulting a n d t h e e s t a b l i s h m e n t of fault-bound
s e d i m e n t a r y b a s i n as t h e result of t h i n n i n g a n d
s t r e t c h i n g of t h e c o n t i n e n t a l c r u s t a n d litho-
sphere. This is s h o w n by t h e p r e s e n t distribution
of the volcano-sedimentary a n d ultrabasic suites
which d e m o n s t r a t e a n evidence for a considerable
interplay of axls aligned N-S n o r m a l faulting which
led to t h e localization of different rock types. The
rifting a n d crustal stretching processes provided
a c c e s s for lava flows a n d p y r o c l a s t i c s a n d
s u b s i d e n c e d u r i n g t h i s stage c a u s e d m a r i n e
t r a n s g r e s s i o n a n d p r o d u c e d a m o n o t o n o u s flysch
sequence. It is s u g g e s t e d t h a t t h e lack of shelf or
b a s i n marigln s e d i m e n t s in this belt, particularly
i n t h e Megado zone, point to the development of the
b a s i n in a h i g h e r extension a n d rapid s u b s i d e n c e
environment. Although the distribution of rock
types a n d rock associations (intercallations of
49
pyroclastics a n d phyllitic rocks) signifies volcanic
e r u p t i o n u n d e r m a r i n e conditions, there is no
evidence to prove w h e t h e r t h e development of t h e
b a s i n w a s a c c o m p a n i e d by t h e development of
the ocean floor; h e n c e it is s u g g e s t e d t h a t t h e ultra-
basic suites were emplaced along reactivated deep-
seated b a s e m e n t faults.
The compresslonal tectonic stage p r o d u c e d poly-
p h a s e deformation a n d in p a r t s e e m s to reactivate
the b a s e m e n t faults. Despite t h e complexities, t h e
deformational histories of all the d o m a i n s during
this stage s h a r e s o m e general similarities. As
already stated, d u r i n g t h e D~ deformation event,
t h r u s t tectonics a n d associated F~ folding p h a s e
a n d penetrative m e t a m o r p h i c foliation (S~), which
are regionally parallel to t h e lithologic layering
(So) are t h e p r e d o m i n a n t deformation s t r u c t u r e s
everywhere in t h e s e d o m a i n s . The S~ foliation
pervades the entire belt b u t is best recognized
in layered rocks s u c h as biotite gneiss, biotite
amphibole gneiss a n d in phyllitic rocks. These
s t r u c t u r e s are distinguished from the superficially
similar S 2 foliations in hinges of F 2 folds a n d in
some zones where the two foliations are oblique.
On t h e limbs of p r e d o m i n a n t l y tight to isoclinal F 2
folds there is a composite foliation S~.2. In the Aflata
area, S~ surfaces, together with early S o a n d later
S 2 surfaces, have b e e n passively rotated by syn-
S 2 shearing to a n E-W orientation. In the E a s t e r n
Gneissic Domain, S~ foliation is m a r k e d by mlgrna-
titic b a n d i n g consisting of pegmatltic a n d / o r tona-
litic n e o s o m e a n d biotite a n d / o r amphibole rich
melanosome.
The g e o m e t r y of t h e small a n d large scale
first p h a s e folds d e p e n d on the orientation of t h e
initial fabric which controlled t h e s u b s e q u e n t
deformations. Small scale folds related to the
first deformation p h a s e were recognized at some
localities a n d their vergence a n d a s y m m e t r i e s
indicate tectonic t r a n s p o r t to the east. These are
p a r t i c u l a r l y e v i d e n t in t h e BurJlJi-Garlboro
Domain a n d the E a s t e r n Gneissic D o m a i n where
t h e foliatlons are s h a l l o w l y dipping. In t h e
M e t a v o l c a n o - s e d l m e n t a r y a n d t h e Ultrabasic
D o m a i n s , w h e r e t h e d e f o r m a t i o n is largely
controlled by the b a s e m e n t faults, the large scale
F~ folds were d e d u c e d to be m o r e upright.
The m a i n events of the structural evolution during
this stage c a n be described as follows:
I. early folding coeval with high-grade meta-
m o r p h i s m a n d d e v e l o p m e n t of east-verging
t h r u s t s h e a r zones. Systematic N-S axial t r e n d s
a n d vergence of these folds is only a p p a r e n t
within discrete d o m a i n s of mild, later evolution.
The later stage d u r i n g this event p r o d u c e d back-
t h r u s t s a n d associated folding with westward
vergence a n d moderately dipping axial planes;
2. development of t h e second p h a s e folding which
50 HAIKUWoP.xUand I~NEmBEBYIFA
is inferred to m a r k either a n extreme evolution
of the first phase folding or IocAli~'.ed develop-
m e n t of the second phase folding.
The details of the t h r u s t tectonics of the Adola
Belt are discussed with reference to the cross-
sections in Fig. lb, which is constructed across
different deformation d o m a i n s (along the line
X-Y on Fig. Ib). I¢~zmin (1976) proposed and
Schmerold (1988) supported thin-skinned t h r u s t
tectonics model for the Adola Belt. However,
thin-sklnned characteristics are not a constant
structural feature. The cross-section of Schmerold
(1988; Fig. 11) requires a thin-skinned model in
which the volcano-sedimentary sequence of the
Megado Belt a n d the basic- ultrabasic rocks of the
Kenticha Belt are klippen underlain by a t h r u s t
and the position of the t h r u s t at the top of the
b a s e m e n t indicate t h a t the latter is not part of the
t h r u s t sequence. This is particularly evident from
the restored section which shows an initially
fiat-lying or horizontal t h r u s t plane. Figure 10
shows a n alternative model in which the volcano-
sedimentary sequence a n d basic/ultrabasic out-
liers are authochtonous; the folding in these rocks
and the b a s e m e n t are the result of shortening
in the b a s e m e n t and a thick-skinned model is
appropriate. In this model, the Megado basin and
Kenticha e x t e n s i o n a l zone would have b e e n
formed by stretching and thinning along normal
f a u l t s in t h e o l d e r b a s e m e n t . S u b s e q u e n t
deformation during compressional event would
have reversed the motion on these faults, so that
above the b a s e m e n t , the volcano-sedlmentary
sequences of the Megado Belt andbasic-ultrabasic
rocks of the Kenticha Belt could be shortened by
folding. Similarly, extensive b a s e m e n t shortening
h a s also been possible where folding a n d thrusting
can be explained by post depositional reverse
motion along hlgh-angle faults.
Owing to the obvious difference in structural
style between the Metavolcano-sedimentary Belt
and the adjacent basements, it is suggested t h a t
the deformation in the metavolcano-sedimentary
sequence is mainly controUed by b a s e m e n t faults
and hence show thick-skinned characteristics.
This is supported by the presence of sub-horizon-
tal S I foliation in the b a s e m e n t rocks and s u d d e n
b r e a k and steepening of the foliation in the
M e t a v o l c a n o - s e d i m e n t a r y D o m a i n . The dis-
continuity in the s t r u c t u r a l style between the
Metavolcano-sedimentary Domain a n d the adja-
cent b a s e m e n t domains therefore reflects initial
fabric and rheologic differences: the volcano-
sedimentary strata deformed by buckling and bulk
strain, whereas deformation of the b a s e m e n t is
t a k e n mostly by bulk, strain a n d far less buckling.
From the ubiquitous development of S~ surfaces
and stretching lineation it is also suggested that
the major t h r u s t systems of the Adola Belt were
transported eastward through a m e c h a n i s m of
regional ductile s h e a r involving the entire body of
the belt and not only along discrete s h e a r planes as
suggested by Schmerold {1988). The t h r u s t move-
m e n t progressively p r o d u c e d horizontal N-S

, / K L PPEN

MVSD ....---- ~ ~ , ~ UBD

Fig. 10. Schematic E-W cross section across the Adola Belt (along line X-Y in Fig. 11o)
showing thick-sklnned trust characteristics.

ZONEOFBACK-THRUSTING

/¥

Fig. 11. E-W Cross section across the Adola Belt (along line X-Y in Fig. Ib) as suggested by Sehmerold (1088).
 The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia) 51

t r e n d i n g F= folds particularly in E a s t e r n Gnelssic progressive non-coaxial d e f o r m a t i o n r e s u l t i n g

D o m a i n w h i c h are believed to be formed o n t h e
u p p e r level in t h r u s t d o m i n a t e d areas. Also d u r i n g
this progressive deformation b o t h b a s e m e n t a n d
cover were involved in a t h i c k - s k l n n e d tectonic
phase. In s o m e localities, particularly along t h e
w e s t e r n m a r g i n of t h e Ultrabasic Domain, regional
scale b a c k - t h r u s t s have occurred at relatively later
stage. This b a c k - t h r u s t l n g w a s recorded from t h e
w e s t e r n m a r g i n of t h e Ultrabasic D o m a i n which
s h o w s t h r u s t t r a n s p o r t direction to t h e west i.e.
opposite to t h e general t h r u s t t r a n s p o r t direction.
It is s u g g e s t e d here t h a t t h e s e westward back-
t h r u s t s a c c o m m o d a t e t h e compatibility problem
t h a t arose w h e n t h e east directed t h r u s t s move
along a very steep plane where f u r t h e r compres-
sion a n d m o v e m e n t could n o t be a c c o m m o d a t e d
by t h e m o v e m e n t in t h e direction of tectonic
transport.
The most prominent feature evident from
the analysis ofdeformational s t r u c t u r e s developed
during this event is t h a t t h e extensional compo-
n e n t of t h e s t r a i n is d o m i n a n t . This is s h o w n by:
1. feldspar m e g a c r y s t s initially parallel to t h e
foliation plane s h o w t h e effect of large finite
extension. Intense stretching w a s accommo-
dated b o t h by fracturing at right angle to t h e
extension axis, a n d by pulling apart of t h e
f r a g m e n t s {Fig. 12);
2. t h e r e is a p r o m i n e n t E-W stretching lineation.
Many observations at various scales suggest a
from eastward directed thrusting. T h e s e include:
I. a s y m m e t r y of p r e s s u r e s h a d o w s a n d recrystal-
llzed tails exhibited a r o u n d m o s t porphyro-
blasts showing rotaUon always in t h e s a m e
sense (Fig. 13);
2. Intracrystalllne fracturing of feldspar porphyro-
blasts initially oblique to t h e foliation, b u t re-
oriented with i n c r e a s i n g s t r a i n by rotation
within a m o r e ductile matrix. This rigid body
rotation has frequently induced antlthetlc
intracrystallme fractures along which fragments
have slipped oblique to the foliation;
3. progressive rotation of deformation i n d u c e d
fabrics;
4. S-C p l a n a r fabrics observed at b o t h mesoscoplc
a n d microscopic scales;
5. a scattering of t h e t r e n d s of c o n t e m p o r a n e o u s
fold axes in t h e m e a n S 1 foliation surface,
contrasting with a c o n s t a n t stretching lineation
close to E-W.
In s u m m a r y , field a n d microscopic s t u d i e s clear-
ly show t h a t strain is characterized by eastward
directed s h e a r (with m i n o r back-thrusting) a n d a
large extensional c o m p o n e n t of strain. The effect of
this deformation is recorded from all rocks with t h e
exception of KaJimiti m e t a c o n g l o m e r a t e a n d meta-
s a n d s t o n e which s h o w s only the fabrics of later
deformation episodes. It is therefore suggested
t h a t these rocks were deposited in a closing basin
later d u r i n g the compressional tF~tonic event.

J w

f _

J
j .

Fig. 12. Feldspar megacrysts showing intense stretching accommodated both by fracturing at Hght angle to the extension
axis and by pulling a p a r t of the fragments, Katawicha. Direction of view is southwards.
 52 HAILU WORKU and KINEI~EB Y1FA

E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , ~ 1¸"

J f \ - - ~ • J - ......

: i FIl@flilOr Or pllidWctlit¢ '~'~

Fig. 13. Feldspar porphyroblast showing rotation as a result of non-coaxial deformation, Katawicha.
Direction of vlew is southwards.

The late-stage in t h e c o m p r e s s i o n a l tectonic event tectonic c o n t a c t a n d k i n e m a t i c i n d i c a t o r s in t h i s

is d o m i n a t e d b y strlke-slip s h e a r zone w h i c h zone indicate the W e s t e r n Gnelssic D o m a i n to be
p r o d u c e d a tectonic fabric of its own. This is a l l o c h t h o n o u s a n d to have m o v e d e a s t w a r d in
p a r t i c u l a r l y e v i d e n t in a r e a s d o m i n a t e d b y a c c o r d a n c e with t h e regional t r a n s p o r t direction.
earlier s t e e p faults a n d tectonic fabrics. In t h e s e As a l r e a d y s t a t e d the g e o m e t r y of the s e c o n d
localities, w h e n t h e c o m p r e s s i o n a l s t r e s s c o u l d not folding p h a s e also varies d e p e n d i n g o n t h e de-
be a c c o m m o d a t e d b y f u r t h e r vertical m o v e m e n t formational d o m a i n s u n d e r consideration. In t h e
(overthrusting) it gave w a y to horizontal m o v e m e n t M e t a v o l c a n o - s e d i m e n t a r y D o m a i n , t h e s e c o n d
or strike-slip s h e a r zone to a c c o m m o d a t e f u r t h e r folding p h a s e is c h a r a c t e r i z e d b y tight to isoclinal,
c o m p r e s s i o n . The b e s t example of this kind of d i s m e m b e r e d roofless intrafolial F 2 folds (in strong-
m o v e m e n t in t h e Adola Belt are evident in t h e ly d e f o r m e d zone) with m o d e r a t e l y to s t e e p l y
Megado M e t a v o l c a n o - s e d i m e n t a r y Belt, at t h e plunging axis to the s o u t h a n d vertical axial plane.
Gariboro granitic m a r g i n s a n d along the e a s t e r n In the E a s t e r n Gneissic Domain, t h e s e c o n d p h a s e
b o u n d a r y of t h e Adola Belt an of w h i c h generally folds have s u b - h o r i z o n t a l N-S axes w h i c h are
a c c o m m o d a t e sinistral strike-slip s h e a r z o n e s a n d believed to r e p r e s e n t a n e x t r e m e evolution of the
associated minor structures. first deformation episode.
W h e t h e r the orientation of t h e initial s t r e s s Unlike the E a s t e r n Gneissic D o m a i n w h i c h s h o w s
regime w h i c h led to the b a s i n c l o s u r e w a s s u c h horizontal F 2 folds, the s t e e p to nearly vertical
t h a t it c o u l d c a u s e only o v e r t h r u s t i n g or t h e p l u n g e s of t h e F 2 f o l d s in t h e M e t a v o l c a n o -
closure is affiliated with t r a n s p r e s s i o n a l strike- s e d i m e n t a r y D o m a i n a n d a d j a c e n t g n e i s s e s p o s e s
slip is not exactly k n o w n b e c a u s e of t h e s u p e r - a p r o b l e m in interpretation of this p h a s e a s t h e e n d
i m p o s e d s t r u c t u r e s of similar ductile n a t u r e . m e m b e r of the t h r u s t i n g event b e c a u s e t h e fold
However, t h e s t e e p w e s t w a r d dip of the w e s t e r n a s y m m e t r i e s are not c o m p a t i b l e with t h r u s t geo-
c o n t a c t b e t w e e n t h e M e t a v o l c a n o - s e d i m e n t a r y metry. B e c a u s e t h e fold axis is u s u a l l y parallel
D o m a i n a n d t h e W e s t e r n Gneissic D o m a i n raise with the intersection of original b e d d i n g or layering
q u e s t i o n s a s to the validity of a t h r u s t tectonic s u r f a c e a n d axial surface, a sub-vertical fold axis
m o d e l in w h i c h t h e Megado M e t a v o l c a n o - s e d i m e n - implies high initial dip of t h e original fabric before
tary D o m a i n is essentially allochthonous a n d moved folding or rotation of hingeline after initiation of
w e s t w a r d early in d e f o r m a t i o n history a s suggest- folding. As no d e f o r m a t i o n e p i s o d e w h i c h have led
ed b y S c h m e r o l d (1988). R a t h e r the dip of this to this reorientation of fold a x e s is identified at
 The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia)
present, it Is h a r d to a c c o u n t for the high dip angle
of the pre-F 2 fabric without restoring the pre-F 2
foliation to vertical. It Is therefore argued here t h a t
t h e S i foliation developed in a n e a r l y vertical
configuration. This m e a n s t h a t this foliation Is
controlled by hlgh-angle fabrics which developed
in the b a s e m e n t during extensional stage. This
a r g u m e n t is in direct contradiction with the
previously proposed model by Schmerold,
1988 w h i c h a s s u m e s horizontal Fi fabric a n d
steepening b y later folding for which the a u t h o r s
failed to obtain a n y field evidence. The fact that the
s t r e t c h i n g lineations p l u n g e s u b - h o r l z o n t a l l y
either to the s o u t h or to the n o r t h a n d the fact t h a t
F 2 folds are statistically slnlstral supports syn- F 2
strike-slip s h e a r in the Megado Metavolcano-
sedimentary Domain. In addition, the fact t h a t
there are two groups of mylonites in Karadissa
river a n d f u r t h e r south and north along the west-
e m margin of the Adola Belt implies that the
early high grade mylonite was later reactivated
and formed platy mylonites under green-
schist facies metamorphism. This implies t h a t the
m e t a m o r p h i c grade was progressively decreasing
towards the end of the compressional event.
The complex tectono- a n d lithostratigraphy in
the Adola belt is therefore attributed to folds of
various phases, s t r u c t u r a l breaks a n d repetition
during Precambrian crustal evolution. The struc-
tural interpretation of the Adola Belt a n d adjacent
t e r r a n e s still h a s m a n y unresolved aspects and
is open for f u r t h e r revision a n d discussion. How-
ever, the model which best fits the structural
observations in this belt is proposed as shown in
Fig. 14, a series of simplified cartoon models
describing the tectonic development of the Pre-
c a m b r i a n c r u s t of the Adola Belt. The validity of
this model is subject to refinement and consider-
able testing although it leaves less questions un-
answered as compared to the previous models.
An i m p o r t a n t q u e s t i o n with r e g a r d to the
evolution of the Adola Belt is w h e t h e r it c a n be
explained in t e r m s of plate tectonics or ensialic
intracontinental mobility. Most r e s e a r c h e r s of Pre-
c a m b r i a n geology accept the view that there was a
significant switch in geological a n d tectonic
patterns at the Archaean/Proterozoic b o u n d a r y
a n d t h a t extensive stable shield a r e a s were
developed and on the margins of these shields
extensive a c c u m m u l a t l o n s of volcano-sediment-
ary sequences were deposited in linear belts. One
view is t h a t these belts represent geosynclines
developing on Atlantic-type continental margins
that undergo orogeny b e c a u s e of c o n s u m p t i o n
of oceanic c r u s t by s u b d u c t i o n along t r e n c h e s
(Hoffman, 1973). An alternative view is that they
are ensialic intracontinental basins founded on
granite c r u s t (KrSner, 1977).
53
Shackleton (1976), in his a s s e s s m e n t of the
y o u n g e r Pan-African belts in central a n d s o u t h e r n
Africa, concluded t h a t the ensialic model is more
consistent with the evidence but the balance is not
in favour of either interpretation. More recently
Windley (1983) in his tectonic review of the
Proterozoic, stated t h a t the balance of opinion is
now in favour of some form of plate tectonics
scheme and t h u s Wilson cycle processes were
active during the Proterozoic.
The tectonic evolution of the Adola Belt h a s
raised controversial tectonic interpretations. By
adopting plate tectonics theory, the most recent
s t u d i e s have c o n c l u d e d t h a t t h e Adola Belt
represents a s u t u r e zone where two continents
collide during Pan-African time (e.g. Schmerold,
1988). On the other h a n d I~azmin (1978) proposed
that the Adola Belt is intracontlnental ensialic
basin. A plate tectonic model for the Adola Belt
would suggest continent-contlnent collision of
Himalayan type at the position of the present belt
a n d t h a t these two plates were separated by
oceanic c r u s t which was subsequently s u b d u c t e d
during the ensuing orogeney. Within the Adola Belt
there is no evidence to suggest t h a t the sediments
were deposited on oceanic crust, b e c a u s e there is
an absence of the typical plate-tectonics Wilson-
cycle characteristic features, namely, a collision
suture, a n ophilitic sequence, glaucophene schists,
eclogites a n d m e l a n g e s . C o n s e q u e n t l y , t h e
a u t h o r s propose the existence of a n ensialic geo-
synclinal b a s i n w h i c h implies that the change from
intraplate to plate-margin orogeney h a d not yet
occurred during the evolution of the Adola Belt.
CONCLUSION
The Adola Belt comprises two m a i n tectono-
stratigraphic units, namely, a h e t e r o g e n e o u s
sequence of high grade a n d complexly deformed
gneisses which are intruded by granites of various
ages; and a n extensive N-S trending Metavolcano-
sedimentary sequence a n d ultrabasic rocks which
were deposited in extensional basin on continental
c r u s t and along major fault zones, a n d u n d e r w e n t
m e t a m o r p h i s m up to lower amphibolite grade.
Of the three p h a s e s of deformation, the first de-
formation, D~, was the most intense a n d pervades
the entire belt. This deformation was responsible
for b a s e m e n t reactivation a n d for the thick-
skinned t h r u s t tectonics a n d it gave rise to the
development of S~ foliation and recumbent, east-
w a r d - v e r g i n g a s y m m e t r i c F~ folds with s u b -
horizontal axes. This foliation is everywhere sub-
parallel to the lithologic contacts giving the initial
impression of dayer-cake, stratigraphy. Thls de-
formation stage is characterized by (I) eastward
regional displacement and some occurrence of
54 HAILU WORKUand KI~'TEBEB YiFA

b a c k - t h r u s t s to the west and (2) a n u n u s u a l l y large Megado Belt F2 folds have a steep plunge a n d are
extensional c o m p o n e n t of strain indicating a compatible with the horizontal displacement. The
possible m e c h a n i s m of nappe motion. A second late stage m the tectonic evolution is m a r k e d by
deformation, D 2, which is deduced to be coaxial strike -slip s h e a r zones, particularly m a r e a s where
with F~ was only locally developed i.e., on the high angle faults control the previous deformation.
E a s t e r n Gneissic D o m a i n a n d r e p r e s e n t a n F 3 was developed p e r p e n d i c u l a r to F~ a n d F2.
extreme evolution of the D~ deformation. In the In spite of y o u n g e r deformation, Sm foliaUons

I' ..... , = ] ~ _ . ~ , .~.-'/x,~/...j,~j)~. :A

/ ~ ' ~ . ' J , / V Z ~ "\ "/. - " I

/ ~ / , , , ," i~zJT', p / \ -x / I

il1 t i ~ ,. ~ ~ ; l l ; ~ L ,'1 " "- " " ,. I

, ", ' ~ ~ "-/-, "' -,, '1,:. /

,,. ,. i

',
.','. " , i r ~ A ~ A T ,~, ;4#F. l l
~ . ~ . . ~
~ i S , , ' / , " i ,,
Y,-<?,~.~-.-~.-.~'~:.,,,,~,~,;,T." ,
O)

"" 1

' ' "g/l,'" .-.,%~.,%,\I,/'.

- --- - ,' , , ,I , ,/ ',Y.; ". . . "',
\ , \ V , . ' , ' I'!', ' , / , "
, : r d / , ' 1 . :'~,. ",1'
/ ---. -..~ ... ~ / -
.~, ' .. ' , ~ ' ,

Fig. 14. Simplified cartoon models describing the tectonic evolution of the Adola Belt. a} stage of extenslonad tectonics and basin
development at the position of the present belt. b) Inversion of the basin owing to the thick-skinned thrust tectonics.
c) Strike-slip tectonics reactivating previous tectonic boundaries.
 The tectonic evolution of the Precambrian metamorphic rocks of the Adola Belt (Southern Ethiopia)
regionally strike N-S a n d t h e later s t r u c t u r e s were
n o t i n t e n s e e n o u g h to d e f o r m severely or m o d i f y
t h e a t t i t u d e of t h e a l r e a d y severely d e f o r m e d rocks.
B e c a u s e S~, S 2 a n d S s s u r f a c e s all dip vertically m
general, it is s u g g e s t e d t h a t t h e noticeable m a j o r
s t r u c t u r e s in t h e Adola Belt were f o r m e d b y s t r a i n
r e g i m e s w i t h horizontal s h o r t e n i n g . F u r t h e r m o r e ,
it is c o n c l u d e d t h a t t h e g e o m e t r y a n d m e c h a n i s m
of d e v e l o p m e n t of geological s t r u c t u r e s d e p e n d on
deformational domains under consideration
implying t h a t b a s e m e n t reactivaUon h a s played a
significant role.
T h e o v e r a l l f e a t u r e of t h e b e l t c a n n o t be
explained b y a plate t e c t o n i c m o d e l involving
W i l s o n - c y c l e p r o c e s s e s s u c h a s o c e a n floor
spreading, s u b d u c t i o n a n d c o n t i n e n t - c o n t i n e n t
collision. I n s t e a d t h e a u t h o r s propose t h a t t h e
Adola g e o s y n c l i n a l b a s i n is floored with c o n t i n e n -
tal c r u s t a n d t h a t t h e ensialic m o d e l is m o r e
appropriate.
A c k n o w l m i ~ , m c , n t s . We would like to express
our sincere appreciation and gratitude to Ato Bekele
W. Michael, Manager of the Training for Mineral
Exploration Project, for his encouragement and support
both during the fieldwork and preparation of the
manuscript. Discussion with our collegues, particular-
ly, with Ato Beraki W. Himanot, Ato Woldai G.Ab and
Dr. Peter Reichwalder greatly improved the content of
the paper. Professor John. M. Moore and an anonymous
referee are thanked for their constructive comments
which improved not only the scientific content of the
paper but also the style of presentation. Lastly, we are
grateful to the Ethiopian Institute of Geological Surveys
for allowing us to publish this work.
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