Banna Boy's Bravery ::

Illustration of a boy from the Banna (or Benna) tribe of Ethiopia.

Elaborate body and face paintings on this Banna member indicate a bull-hopping ceremony rife with traditions and rituals will commence soon. The Banna are one of the many ethnic groups located in the southwest region of Ethiopia. They were once part of the Hamer group and continue to share many customs and traditions despite splitting, including a coming-of-age ceremony where boys leap over a row of bulls. Preparation for the day begins with an age-old custom, painting the face with elaborate patterns and spots, reflecting the coat and channeling the strength of a leopard. They will need it as they leap over rows of bulls a minimum of 4 times.

Once completing the ceremony, young Banna boys are welcomed into manhood with an elevated social status and are able to ask for a wife at any time.

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