Movement, Warfare and Ethnicity in the Lower Omo Valley

Prolonged periods of military activity among the Dassanetch, Nyangatom, and Mursi ethnic groups in the Lower Omo Valley serve as a mechanism to maintain geographical distance and respectful relations despite underlying competition for resources. While cattle remain a highly valued asset across these groups, the Mursi are less pastoral compared to the Dassanetch and Nyangatom. The study suggests that long-term population movements between sections like Inkabelo and Inkoria may occur indirectly through intermediary groups such as the Narich, though this is not directly documented. Military conflicts, lasting years rather than months, disrupt the 'normal' state of intergroup relations but are essential in managing potential resource competition in a context of permanent hostility.

Turton, D. (2019). Movement, Warfare and Ethnicity in the Lower Omo Valley. Herders, Warriors, and Traders, 145–169. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429045615-7