I took this picture at Key Afer Market, one of the biggest markets in the southern stretches of Ethiopia’s Lower Omo Valley. The market isn’t just where the locals do their shopping, but also a social event where people from the surrounding villages gather to catch up. This woman belongs to the Banna people, one of the two main tribes in this area, along with the Tsamai. On market day, the women dress in their most vibrant outfits and decorate their hair with feathers and colourful clips. They also usually rub butter into their braided hair to keep it moist and protected from the sun’s powerful rays. Beads are very popular when it comes to jewellery, but many women recycle all kinds of objects (such as watchbands, wires and buttons) to make their own unique accessories.
BÉRENGÈRE CAVALIER // PHOTOGRAPHER
IMAGE: PICFAIR/BÉRENGÈRE CAVALIER
Read the complete article and many more in this issue of
National Geographic Traveller (UK)
Purchase options below
If you own the issue,
Login to read the full article now.
Single Digital Issue
December 2018
 
This issue and other back issues are not included in a new National Geographic Traveller (UK) subscription. Subscriptions include the latest regular issue and new issues released during your subscription.
Annual Digital Subscription
$39.99
billed annually
6 Month Digital Subscription
$22.99
billed twice a year