This expedition to Ethiopia undertook a multidisciplinary study of the Waito people living around Lake Tana—primarily in Fasilo, with comparative work in the smaller communities of Gediro and Ygasho. The six‑member team spent July to September examining the social structure, economy, crafts, biology, and environment.
The expedition documented fishing methods, local fish species, plant use (papyrus reeds, salein palms), and environmental conditions through biological surveys, meteorological observations and mapping. The team also detailed Waito housing, clothing, games, fire‑making, burial practices and social interactions with Amhara neighbours, noting gradual cultural change, urban employment opportunities, and diminishing traditional roles such as hippo hunting.
Overall, the report presents one of the earliest comprehensive ethnographic, ecological and material‑culture studies of the little‑documented Waito communities along Lake Tana.
