It has been a beautiful and fascinating journey through the Lower
Omo. But it’s not for everyone. The hassles of dealing with the constant
begging and harranging for money, shoes and even empty water bottles “Highland!
Highland!” a constant chant from the street kids.
Want a photo? It’s going to cost you. Expect to pay Birr 3 – Birr 5
– often per shot. Think of it as a modelling fee. I have no problem
paying to enter a village, but I am more than skeptical where the money ends
up.
A human zoo? It’s easy for the locals to get in a frenzy over the
photos. I found it much better to ask the guides to explain that I wanted to
see the village first and ask questions before bringing out my camera for a
more pleasurable encounter, but it doesn’t always work out.
Even more of a pain are the “guides” to the markets. A couple earned
their money, but many did not.
Whilst it is possible now to make it through to Jinka by public
transport, if you really want to get out and about you will need to hire a 4 by
4 and driver. I am grateful to the friendly and knowledgeable Abreham (+251 –
911 680 327) who gave me an excellent price for the tour which enabled me to
get into more isolated areas of the valley.
All accommodation options and restaurants are over-priced for what
they offer – whether one stays in budget or more up-market lodgings.
Modernisation is rushing through the Omo the valley, and the near
completion of the Gibe III dam will change the environment and the lives of the
tribes irreversibly.
More information on the Mursi can be found at www.mursi.org
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