Buzz
The lip plate tradition among Mursi women attracts numerous tourists and is highly respected by the men in their community.
THE MURSI TRIBE
The Mursi people reside in one of the most isolated regions in the southwest of Ethiopia. Only 848 individuals live in urban areas, with the remainder mostly residing in rural parts of the Debub Omo region.
The Omo Valley in Ethiopia is one of Africa's most fascinating destinations due to the cultural diversity of over 20 tribes sharing the same border. This area is particularly known for women with pierced lips adorned with plates, symbolizing their coming-of-age.
EXPLAINING THE STRANGE CUSTOM
According to the tradition of the Mursi tribe, when girls reach the age of 15-16, they undergo a lip piercing to prepare for wearing lip plates. Once the hole in their lower lip is large enough, they begin by inserting a small wooden or clay disc with a diameter of around 4cm.
Over the course of a year, the plate gradually increases in size, and the woman has the freedom to decide how large she wants her lip plate to be. Married women are required to wear the plate when serving food and during significant ceremonies such as weddings or battles.
MEANING
Many tourists visit the tribe to witness firsthand the practice of lip plates. The women of the Mursi tribe continue to wear these plates, making it a unique cultural tradition that attracts visitors.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnSeptember 25, 2024
