The Surma Tribe & the Meaning Behind the Lip Plate Tradition Deep in the Omo Valley of Ethiopia, the Surma (or Suri) Tribe is known for one of the most visually striking cultural practices in Africa — the wearing of lip plates by women. This ancient tradition involves piercing and gradually stretching the lower lip to insert a clay or wooden plate, sometimes reaching up to 16 inches wide. But this practice is far more than appearance — it’s a symbol of beauty, strength, identity and social statu

53K views · 267 reactions | Surma women in Ethiopia participate in traditional dances during community celebrations and rituals. These dances are often accompanied by singing, clapping, and drumming, and the young women adorn themselves with body paint, flowers, and natural ornaments, displaying beauty and cultural pride while strengthening group unity. #inspirationofafrica | Quim Fàbregas - Fotografía y Viajes. | Facebook

Suri/Surma tribe Omo Valley Ethiopia. . . 📽️ Mamaru Ethiopian Tours . . . #Ethiopia #OmoValley #omoriver #omoadvisor #tribe #tribes #omovalleytribes #omovalleytour #omovalleylocalguide #africa #travel #travelblogger #travelafrica #travelethiopia #seeafrica #visitafrica #facepainting #suri #surma #suritribe #surmatribe #suritribes #surmatribes #visitomovalley | Omo Advisor

Surma/ Suri tribe Omo Valley Ethiopia. . . . #Ethiopia #OmoValley #omoriver #tribes #mamaruethiopiantours #mamarulocalguide #omovalleytribes #omovalleytour #omovalleylocalguide #africa #travel #travelblogger #travelafrica #travelethiopia #seeafrica #visitafrica #facepainting #suri #surma #suritribe #surmatribe #suritribes #surmatribes #visitomovalley #omoadvisor #mamaru | Mamaru Endris

Surma / Suri tribe, Omo Valley Ethiopia. . . . 📽️ @arms_too . . . #Ethiopia #OmoValley #omoriver #tribes #omoadvisor #surma #suri #surmatribe #suritribe #surmatribes #suritribes #africa #culture #travelafrica #travelethiopia #culturetraveler #amazingafrica #amazing_africa #africaamazing #africa_amazing #travelworld #seeafrica #africantribes #uniquepeople #uniquetribe #uniquetribes #humanityshots #humanity_shots #people_infinity #portrait | Omo Advisor

Surma women's body painting consists of artistic designs made with white clay, ochre, charcoal, and plants. These designs are applied to adorn the body, express personal creativity, and are used in ceremonies and celebrations. The body often features lines, dots, and natural motifs, transforming it into a living art form that reflects their cultural identity. #inspirationofafrica | Quim Fàbregas - Fotografía y Viajes.