-
The Gedeo people
The Gedeo people are an ethnic group indigenous to southern Ethiopia, primarily residing in the Gedeo Zone of the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region (SNNPR). According to the 2007 Ethiopian national census, their population stands at 986,977. While 75.05% of them live within the SNNPR, 24.84% inhabit the neighboring Oromia Region, with a small percentage (6.24%) residing in urban areas. They primarily speak the Gedeo language, part of the Cushitic language family, alongside Amharic. Cultural HeritageThe Gedeo culture is notably distinguished by the baalle tradition, a system of ranks and age classes that mirrors the Gadaa system of the Oromo people. This system encompasses seven grades that span ten…
-
The Basketo people
The Basketo people are an Omotic-speaking ethnic group located in the northwestern part of the South Ethiopia Regional State (SERS) of Ethiopia. Named after this ethnic group, the Basketo Zone is a significant region for their community. As per the 2007 Ethiopian national census, the Basketo population numbers 78,284, with an overwhelming 99.3% of them living in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR). Agriculture is the cornerstone of the Basketo economy. They primarily cultivate ensete, commonly known as the false banana, a staple food that plays a crucial role in their diet and culture. Besides ensete, they grow tuber roots, maize, millet, and various vegetables, ensuring a diversified…
