Suri People
The Suri people are an indigenous ethnic group residing in the southwestern region of Ethiopia, primarily in the SNNPR (Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region). They are known for their unique cultural practices, including traditional body painting and the use of lip plates among women, which signify beauty and social status. The Suri primarily engage in agriculture and cattle herding, relying on their livestock for sustenance and trade.
The Suri people speak the Suri language, which belongs to the Nilo-Saharan language family. Their society is organized into clans, and they have a rich oral tradition that includes storytelling and music. Despite facing challenges from modernization and external influences, the Suri continue to maintain their cultural identity and practices.