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During Dimi temporary huts have mushroomed as the village population soars from 500 to 5000
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Dassanech are the southernmost tribe in the Omo Valley. Genetically they have most in common with the Pokot tribe in Kenya
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A cheering crowd parades between the huts with women holding wooden sticks and spatulas
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Dassanech girls are circumcised young, at around 10 to 12 years of age. If they are not, a girl can't marry and her father will not receive the dowry
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The preparation for girl circumcision is celebrated in a major ceremony called the Dimi which takes place every couple of years
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The totem-like structure called Nass outside the hut indicates the home of a girl who will be honoured in the Dimi ceremony
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Dimi ceremonial outfit comprising ostrich hat, leopard skin and wooden shield hanging on a pole outside the hut
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Sophisticated clay bun with multiple colours, crochet work and a feather. Clay buns are worn during special events such as Dimi or wedding
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Dassanech man with an orange and white clay bun and chewing tobacco behind his left ear
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Dassanech people have adapted to live in an unforgiving and inhospitable arid and dusty environment
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The Dimi ritual is crucial for men. Once the Dimi is over the father attains his elder status
