The Mursi people of Ethiopia are a fascinating and unique cultural group that is renowned for their distinctive customs and traditions. Located in the southwestern part of the country, the Mursi people are a semi-nomadic group who have managed to preserve their way of life for centuries despite the pressures of modernization.

They are known for their elaborate body decorations, which are often displayed during special occasions such as weddings, funerals, and other ceremonies. The most famous of these decorations are the lip plates worn by Mursi women, which are large clay discs inserted into a hole in the lower lip. When they walk about without them, their lips hang like a loose flap. (Using a crude sign language, I managed to purchase one from one of the women. It now sits prominently on one of our bookshelves.) The size of the lip plate is seen as a symbol of beauty and status, with larger plates being considered more attractive. The Mursi men also engage in body decoration, often adorning themselves with intricate patterns and scars, but not as much as the women.

The Mursi people are also known for their cattle herding, which is a crucial part of their way of life. We were in their temporary village, and didn’t see any of this. They are skilled at identifying the best grazing lands and managing their herds, which include cattle, goats, and sheep. Cattle play an important role in Mursi culture, not only as a source of food but also as a symbol of wealth and social status. In fact, cattle are often used as currency in Mursi society, and their ownership is a sign of a person's prestige.

The Mursi people live in huts made from natural materials such as wood and grass, and their villages are often located near rivers or other sources of water. Despite the harsh environment in which they live, the Mursi people have developed a close relationship with the land and have adapted their way of life to the unique challenges of their surroundings.

One of the biggest challenges faced by the Mursi people in recent years has been the encroachment of outsiders on their lands, like us. The Ethiopian government has been promoting tourism in the region, which has led to an influx of visitors who often disrupt traditional Mursi ways of life. They see us, and they see the difference between what we have and what they have. In addition, the government has been promoting large-scale agriculture and development projects that threaten to displace the Mursi people from their ancestral lands.

Despite these challenges, the Mursi people have remained resilient, and efforts are being made to preserve their unique culture and way of life. There are several organizations working to support the Mursi people, including the Mursi Development Association, which is dedicated to promoting sustainable development and protecting the rights of the Mursi people.