Ethnicity and material culture Economy and commerce

Map 1. Approximate location for six Berta communities in Ethiopia

1.1.2 Ethnicity and material culture

The ethnic relatedness of the various Berta communities is undeniably a unifying factor. Each of the areas surveyed identified themselves as “Berta”; however, among certain members of the Maiyu variety, a preference for the name “Benishangul” emerged. Additionally, the material culture of the Maiyu, Fadashi and Undulu is very similar. Each group eats a porridge made of sorghum, topped with an okra- based sauce. Houses are made of interwoven bamboo and covered with grass roofs. Women typically wear a colorful dress “atop” indigenous of Sudan, which wraps around the waist and chest and then is draped over the head. Men from these regions typically wear either Sudanese-style “jalabiya” or more western clothing pants and a shirt, but it is typical for all men to wear the Sudanese clothing on Fridays when attending mosque. Facial scarring can be observed among the older members men and women in each of the three communities listed, but this practice has been discouraged and is rarely seen among people less than 25 years old. The Wabosh and Beleje Gonfoye are exceptional and seem to have limited shared material culture with the other communities. Their food, housing and clothing are different from the others; however, the practice of facial scarring and their ethnic identity are shared. Based on interaction and dialogue within those areas, it appears that a difference in religion is the primary reason for certain nuances in material culture. Additionally, there is virtually no contact between the Beleje Gonfoye and other Berta.

1.1.3 Economy and commerce

The Berta of Ethiopia, consistent with the national average, are predominately agriculturalists. The cycle of planting, harvesting and preparing food dominates the daily activities for both men and women. In addition to sustenance farming, many of the men who reside near the Sudanese border engage in cross- border trading to supplement their income. This frequent expedition adds to the already high position that Arabic holds in the average Berta home. Various craftsmen like shoemakers, metal workers, furniture makers, and tailors also exist, but such jobs are often specialized among just a few. In addition to selling excess fruit and vegetables, the transport and sale of bamboo is another means by which many Berta households acquire cash. Some women are skilled at embroidery, a commodity which can be sold in the market place. With these financial options and others to choose from, a relatively low number of Berta have prioritized higher education, although there are some who graduate from high school or college and work at office jobs.

1.1.4 Education