The Omotic peoples, living along the Omo River, are known for their unique Afro-Asiatic languages and complex socio-political systems. Major Omotic states include Yem, Kafa, and Shekka, each with distinct characteristics: Yem had a hierarchical administration and agricultural economy, Kafa was noted for its defense systems and expansion, and Shekka introduced Christianity and faced frequent conflicts. Other Omotic states, such as Wolaita, Dawuro, Gamo, and Gofa, also had advanced administrative systems and economies before being incorporated into the Ethiopian Empire.

In Ethiopia’s Eastern highlands, Cushitic-speaking groups like the Sidama, Hadya, Kambata, Tambaro, Halaba, and Qabena are engaged in agriculture. They use systems such as Sera-Woma for governance, with variations like the Sidama’s Luwa system and Kambata’s Hambarcho council. The Gedeo use a seven-grade system, the Konso have a rotating council and generation sets, while the Gurage have clan-based governance with legislative and judicial bodies. The Silt’e follow their own customary legal system, Ye Silt’e Sera.