Known For: Cattle culture, seasonal farming, peaceful coexistence, and spiritual cattle rituals

The Arbore Tribe, also known as Hor, live in the arid lowlands north of Chew Bahir, bordering the Tsemay. They are pastoralists and agro-pastoralists, herding cattle, sheep, and goats, while practicing seasonal flood-based farming along the Woito River. Their lifestyle balances livestock mobility with communal agriculture, especially during the rainy season.

Cattle are central to Arbore culture—not only economically, but spiritually and socially. Milking cows and young livestock are kept near settlements, while other herds roam with temporary camps. During drought, the Arbore maintain peaceful relations by moving livestock into neighboring Tsemay and Borana lands through cooperation and mutual trust.

Seasonal Farming and Land Sharing

The Arbore use slash-and-burn cultivation, guided by seasonal rains and river flooding. For each harvest, a council of elected elders, called Murra, assesses the land and allocates plots— with priority given to widows, orphans, and the poor, reflecting the tribe’s deep values of equality and care for the vulnerable.

 Cattle Blessing Ritual – Hulko

One of the most important rituals in Arbore society is Hulko, held at the start of the rainy season when fresh grass begins to grow. All the cattle are gathered and herded through four symbolic wooden gates, blessing the animals with protection and fertility. The community then shares coffee mixed with butter and milk, followed by group dancing and blessings from the elders and the Kawet (spiritual leader).

Peaceful Coexistence

The Arbore are widely regarded as one of the most peaceful tribes in the Omo Valley. Their commitment to harmony is supported by factors like intermarriage, multilingualism, and resource-sharing with neighboring tribes. A long-standing legend warns of the spiritual consequences of attacking the Arbore, further reinforcing their peaceful reputation.

Travel with Omo Region Tours to experience the gentle rhythms of Arbore life—witness sacred rituals, explore riverside villages, and learn from a community that values harmony, generosity, and tradition.