• Africa,  African Great Lakes,  Indigenous People,  Karo language (Ethiopia)

    Karo language (Ethiopia)

    The Karo language, also known as Cherre, Kere, or Kara, is a South Omotic language spoken in the South Omo Zone of Ethiopia’s Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People’s Region. As of the 2007 census, it is spoken by approximately 1,500 people. Karo belongs to the Afro-Asiatic language family and is classified under the Omotic branch, specifically within the Hamer-Karo subfamily. This classification places it in close relation to Hamer-Banna, with the two languages sharing around 81% lexical similarity. The Karo people, residing near the lower Omo River, are noted for their rich cultural practices and unique forms of self-expression. They are renowned for their vibrant body art, elaborate headdresses, and…