Geological Field Survey of Borama District, Awdal State, Somaliland

The present study was part of an investigative geoscience field program, including thorough geological/geoscience surveying. The main objective was to gather data to better understand the geology of the Borama region, situated in the Awdal State of Somalia. This work was conducted from Sept. 1-30, 2000, at various locations throughout the involved areas. A total of 9 sites were included in the field investigations. These included Faraxyada Hills, Dunbuluq Mountains, CaraQoolaalab Hill, Qoorgaab Valley hadmacan Mountain, Fuleyfule Mountain, Sharlaganaadi Mountain, Sheylaha Mountain and Sogsogley Mountain. The overall goal of selecting each of these sites was due to their different and complex geological features; possible source of future resource development. However, other goals were met through this work…. These included identification of rock types and minerals, categorization of geological formations, study environmental problems, and develop scientific data for proceeding research. The results of the surveys highlighted the complication geologic history in this region, as evidenced through the presence of metamorphic, igneous and sedimentary rocks; such as; schist, phyllite, gneiss, marble, basalt, granite, Diorite, tuff, quartzite. By utilizing remote sensing technology the next phase of this study will be the mapping of geological features, hydrological features and environmental features of these 9 sites. The report discussed potential impacts of environmental concerns, similar to those previously described, with suggestions for sustainable management. Moreover, this report highlighted the economic potential of numerous natural resources in this region related to building materials and construction stone. Additionally, this report highlighted the actions of this work that contribute to the overall understanding of tectonic magmatic and sedimentation processes evidence within the study region, while providing scientific recommendations.

Keywords: Borama geology, metamorphic rocks, igneous rocks, sedimentary formations, remote sensing, environmental impact.