Known For: Permanent agriculture, large population, structured leadership, and peaceful coexistence

The Aari (or Ari) tribe is the most populous ethnic group in the Omo Valley, living primarily in the fertile highlands around Jinka and Key Afer, just north of Mago National Park. Unlike many pastoralist tribes in the region, the Aari are settled agriculturalists, producing the majority of the Omo Valley’s fruits, vegetables, and grains. They cultivate cereals like sorghum, teff, and maize; root crops such as taro, yam, and enset (false banana); as well as cash crops like coffee and cardamom. Animal husbandry, beekeeping, and crafts also support their livelihoods.

The Aari follow a lunar calendar with twelve named months, and their society is structured into nine autonomous territories. Each region is led by a hereditary Babi (chief), with a hierarchy that includes religious leaders, village heads, and community agents. Family is the foundation of Aari life, and polygamy is permitted based on a man’s ability to provide.

Diet and Appearance

Thanks to their agricultural lifestyle, the Aari enjoy one of the most varied diets in the region. In rural areas, Aari women often wear traditional Gori or Koysh dresses, made from enset leaves and decorated with colorful beads, while those in urban areas increasingly adopt modern clothing.

Aari Marriage Traditions

The Aari recognize three traditional forms of marriage:

• Kubsina – arranged marriage

• Sora – consensual marriage

• Ardetin – marriage by inheritance

These customs reinforce family ties and respect for lineage, while allowing for personal choice and practical arrangements within the community.

Conflict and Harmony

While the Aari are generally peaceful, they have experienced periodic conflict with their pastoralist neighbors, particularly the Mursi, often over land and access to markets. Notably, the Aari do not rely on firearms for defense, preferring traditional spears. With most other tribes, however, they maintain a spirit of cooperation and trade.

 Book enriching Omo Valley tours with us and experience the cultural diversity of the Aari firsthand—explore bustling markets, visit hillside farms, and meet one of Ethiopia’s most agriculturally advanced and community-driven tribefrom the lack of access to the markets of Jinka and Barka towns which they once in a while go to attend the weekly markets. The Ari live in harmony with the rest of their neighbors.