In October 2016, I was able to carry out this project that I had found hugely inspiring from the moment I first began to gather information on it. After I had arrived in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, I spent three full eight- hour days travelling over the poorly maintained roads and scant infrastructure that I encountered as of the second day of my journey.

The photos were taken at dawn and dusk, seeking the right natural light with the assistance of a folding light reflector, which I taught the local guide accompanying me how to use. All the floral ornaments and body paintings worn by the impromptu models were their own choice, and in no case was I involved. I decided to use monochrome on this project for their profound stares and the bright body paintings that are so common and diverse in their daily life.