These women belong to the Mursi tribe in Ethiopia—an indigenous group living in the Debub Omo Zone of southern Ethiopia, near the border with South Sudan. The Mursi, who call themselves the Mun, are part of the Surmic ethnic groups and are known for one of the most distinctive and debated cultural practices in the world: lip plates.

Lip plates are worn by Mursi women as part of their tradition and identity. Historically, it’s believed that this practice may have started during the time of slavery—some accounts suggest that women began to stretch their lips to appear less desirable to slave traders. Over time, however, this evolved into a deep-rooted cultural symbol.

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In Mursi society, lip plates are seen as a sign of beauty and value. When a girl reaches puberty—usually around 15 or 16—a female elder of the tribe cuts her lower lip, and a small wooden plug is inserted. Gradually, the size of the plate is increased over time. Some plates can reach up to 12 cm in diameter.

A large lip plate often signifies a woman’s fertility, strength, and readiness for marriage, and is even said to affect the dowry her family receives—usually measured in cows. A woman who chooses not to wear one might be considered lazy or less valuable in terms of bridal wealth.

While to outsiders this may seem extreme, in the Mursi culture, it represents perseverance, bravery, loyalty, and faithfulness. Some even say it helps maintain peace in the household—there’s a belief that it keeps women from talking too much, reducing marital disputes.

Whether you view it with curiosity, admiration, or surprise, there’s no denying that the lip plate tradition is a fascinating reflection of how beauty and identity can be deeply shaped by culture.