The Women Who Smile

Duka, a young unmarried Hamar girl learns what awaits her in life from the older women of her tribe. Their often humorous conversations range from teenage pregnancy and growing old to relationships with men. Although the men are dominant, the women are not servile and on occasion will mock the posturing of the men. The women’s high spirits are revealed during the harvest celebrations and the blessing ceremony for a new baby. Young women avoid the watchful eyes of their elders as they flirt and dance.