This project aims at enhancing scientific knowledge on the East African rift system (EARS) in terms of deep structure, geodynamic evolution, tectonics, resource potential and hazard impact. It investigates the time dimension in terms of various stages of rift development, with emphasis on the relations between crust, mantle lithosphere and asthenosphere dynamics. By studying the recent southwestern branch of the rift from Katanga (DRC) and Zambia to the Okavango in Botswana, it provides the first picture of a rift system during the embryonic stages of rifting, a missing snapshot in the evolution of young continental rift zones. In terms of applied science and technology, it improves research standards, methods and techniques through sharing facilities and creates a data base system in an interactive setting for rapid and effective communication on EARS. As benefits to Society, it assess and evaluate EARS resource potential (coal and gold deposits, geothermal energy, groundwater, agricultural and construction material) which are necessary for development and understand, predict or at least mitigate hazards and evaluate their impact on the environment.