Sunday, July 14, 2013

The Karo in Kolcho



Down a sandy path, some 60kms outside of Turmi lies Kolcho, the largest of the Karo villages. It took just over 2 hours to make the journey. Their number is small – around 5,000 remain, with almost 10% settled in this beautiful village on a sand escarpment overlooking the river and verdant forests on the other shoreline.






Much of their cattle were killed through a bovine epidemic three years ago, and there is not much sign of them being replenished. Their language and culture is not dissimilar to the Hamer. They are easily distinguished by their face and body paint, and white freckles of their faces are meant to resemble the plentiful guinea fowl that frequent many parts of the Omo Valley.  



Charges for vehicles are extortionate, but the beautiful village and its dramatic setting, as well as  these colourful people make it a great place to visit.

 

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