Surma People

The Surma people are considered to be “nomads” by other Ethiopians. But in true sense the surma are no longer nomads. They were nomads when people have been fewer in number and competing for grazing. Now days they are living settled life depending on cultivated grains (Sorghum and maize) for the greater part of their subsistence.

The surma are known for their stick fighting. At a fight each contestant is armed with a hard wood pole which is about six feet long with a weight of just less than two pounds. In the attacking position this pole is gripped at its base with both hands, the left above the right in order to give maximum swing and leverage.  Each player beats his opponent with his stick as many times as possible with intention of knocking him down, and eliminating him from the game. Players are usually unmarried men. The winner is carried away on the platform of poles to a group of girls waiting at the side of the stadium who decide among themselves to ask him for marriage.<br />Surma women, like Mursi women, wear a lip plate which again explains the societal status.