Covid-19 has affected almost every country around the globe.
With the reality of the pandemic closing boarders around the world and the catastrophic affects it would have on those relying on tourism, I started the Generosity Project Africa as a way for us all to help.
Tribes, who once lived beautifully off the land, have come to rely on tourism as a source of income. Many tribes have chosen to stay living on their tribal lands, keeping their cultures strong, and adapting to this new world by choosing to invite us to experience their fascinating world.
Addis city boarders have been closed for 5 months and there has been no travel allowed to the Omo Valley. However, on August 21 the team left with two huge trucks carrying 20,000 kg of food, special hands-free washing stations, sanitizer, soap, and was going to be giving Covid training and awareness.
The team sends news of their visit with the Mursi and Nyogatham
The team sends a greeting on their way to visit the Mursi (pronounced Mosi). Desale mentioned they are the most celebrated tribe, but their are also known as the bad boys of the Omo; Dani shares some of his knowledge about the tribe.
The Mursi are cousins to the Suri. They are almost identical in their body structure, hairstyle, lip plates, earring style, body scarification, bangles, the stance of the men with their sticks and a blanket warn over the shoulder; even their traditions are the same. The one significant difference is the head piece. The head piece of the Mursi is two wart hog tusk held by metal rings, strapped together by a rope, warn over their heads. The young suri are known for their elaborate head pieces made from nature.
The beauty and strength of the tribal women is remarkable.
This is another favorite clip sent by the team. Rather than washing hands, this mother is washing her baby! Brilliant!
The team surprised me by making it to the Nayogatham, which live on the other side of the Omo River (west side). They are still one of the least visited tribes in the Omo Valley because they have a reputation to be one of the toughest tribes in Africa.
The beadwork and skins of the Nyogatham tribe is the most exquisite I have seen anywhere in Africa.
In the this video clip you will discover the women seem to really enjoy the colorful mask, which adds to their beautiful and bright ornamentation.
The women were so overjoyed they sent a song and dance of blessings to you.
This team was beyond incredible. As you are aware we had weeks of delay heading out of Addis due to unexpected restrictions; the team remained on stand by waiting for a window of opportunity. With the support and help of the board of tourism the team was finally able to load two huge lorry trucks (small semi) with 20,000kg of food, soap, sanitizer, handsfree washing stations, and head to the Omo on August 21, 2020. It took two full days to prepare for departure (more for the organizing of all supplies) out of Addis before beginning a two-day journey to the Omo Valley. Once the team arrived they went non-stop, in grueling heat, stopping only to rest for a few hours at night.
We feel so blessed that all of you cared and wanted to support this project. Our relationship with the tribes, lodges, camps, and local guides, goes way beyond tourism and the photographic experience; over the years we have become more like an extended family. With your help and trust we were not only able to check up on our extended family, bring much need supplies and news about COVID, but we are able to be an example of responsible tourism.
The team has a final message for you as they had back to Addis.
MOST HUMBLY, I thank my incredible partners who always believe and support my crazy idea’s. Without them, what I do could NEVER be possible.
I want to thank them for their ethics, all the support of this project mentally and financially. Without their support of logistics, sponsorship of the vehicles, team, and relationships throughout Ethiopia, this project would not have been possible.
