Ethiopia's Authority for Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage announced discovery of Homo sapiens fossils from 100,000 years ago in the Middle Awash area of the Afar region. The study, led by Dr. Yonas Beyene with scientists from 24 countries, fills key gaps in Africa's human origins timeline.
Ethiopia's Authority for Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage has unveiled new archaeological discoveries from the Halibi site in the Middle Awash area of the Afar region. The findings reveal distorted migration routes of early humans and ancient lifestyles, according to officials.
Led by Dr. Yonas Beyene, the multi-year project involved scientists from 24 countries. Excavations uncovered Homo sapiens fossils, thousands of stone tools, and various animal remains from 100,000 years ago. These discoveries bridge a significant information gap in African human evolution history between 900,000 and 200,000 years ago.
Authority Director Abebaw Ayalew noted that the government prioritizes scientific research, enabling numerous ongoing projects. The study's results were published today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Evidence points to a fluctuating, arid environment with hyena, zebra, horned animals, bird, and fish remains.
The fossils and artifacts reaffirm Ethiopia's role as a cradle of humankind, shedding light on early technological use and environmental influences.