The Surma Tribe||Culture and Tradition

The Surma tribe lives in the Omo Valley in southern Ethiopia. They are known for their bold traditions and unique way of life.

The Surma Tribe

One special thing about Surma women is the lip plate. When a girl becomes a teenager, she starts to stretch her lower lip by putting in a small clay plate. Over time, the plate gets bigger, some can be as wide as a hand! To the Surma, this is a sign of beauty and pride. The bigger the plate, the more respected the woman is.

Surma women also paint their bodies with white patterns made from clay. They do this during festivals and important events.

Surma men take part in a traditional stick fight called Donga. Two men use long sticks and compete in front of the village. It shows who is brave and strong. Winning can bring respect, and sometimes help a man get a wife!

Even though the world is changing, the Surma people still hold on to their culture, beauty, and courage.