Watch Drawn From Water

Drawn From Water is a 2012 documentary film that focuses on the lives of the Daasanach, a semi-nomadic tribe living in the Omo Valley in southern Ethiopia. The movie explores the challenges faced by the tribe and their struggle for survival, as their way of life is threatened by climate change, political instability, and the building of a large hydroelectric dam on the Omo River.

The film follows the story of Lale Labuko, a young Daasanach man who was given away as a child and raised in the city by an Ethiopian couple. After finishing his studies, Lale returns to his tribe and decides to set up a school for the children in his village, with the goal of helping them preserve their traditional culture and language.

As the movie progresses, we also meet Kristen Teft and Nick Kalbach, two Americans who have traveled to Ethiopia to work with Lale on his project. The three of them bond over their shared passion for the Daasanach people and their determination to bring about positive change in the community.

The documentary is beautifully shot, with stunning footage of the Omo Valley and its people. We see the daily struggles of the Daasanach, who live off the land and rely on the river for fishing, farming, and transportation. We witness their joy and resilience, but also their pain and hardship, such as the devastating droughts that have killed off their livestock and crops.

One of the most poignant moments in the film comes when Lale and Kristen visit a village that has been displaced by the dam construction. The villagers tell how they were given no warning, no compensation, and no alternative land to settle on. They are left to fend for themselves in a new and unfamiliar environment, where they are unwanted by the local population.

At its core, Drawn From Water is a story of hope and inspiration. We see the incredible strength and resilience of the Daasanach people in the face of immense challenges. We witness the power of education and community building, as Lale and his team work tirelessly to improve the lives of the next generation. And we are reminded of the importance of cultural preservation and respect for indigenous communities, whose knowledge and traditions can offer valuable insights into sustainable living and environmental stewardship.

Overall, Drawn From Water is a moving and thought-provoking film that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of a unique and vibrant community in Africa. It invites us to reflect on our own values and priorities, and to consider the ways in which we can support and learn from the world's diverse cultures and ecosystems.