7. Mention the scales which are used in Southern Ethiopia.

In Southern Ethiopia, both traditional and modern measurement scales are utilized across various aspects of daily life, commerce, agriculture, and official activities. Below is an overview of the primary scales used in the region: ### **1. Traditional Measurement Systems** Different ethnic groups in Southern Ethiopia have historically used their own traditional units of measurement. These units often vary between communities but share some common categories: #### **a. Length Units** - **Caba:** A traditional unit of length used in some southern communities. The exact measurement can vary, but it is typically based on body parts (e.g., the length of a forearm). - **Seke:** Another local measure of length, often used in agricultural contexts to measure land or crop dimensions. #### **b. Weight Units** - **Berze:** A traditional unit for measuring weight, commonly used in markets for trading goods like grains, livestock, and other commodities. - **Qelig:** Used in certain areas for weighing produce and other traded items. #### **c. Volume Units** - **Traditional Containers:** Various local containers (such as gourds or woven baskets) are used to measure volume, especially for liquids like milk or grains like teff. #### **d. Capacity and Area** - **Land Measurement Units:** Traditional units are often based on the amount of land that can be cultivated by a family or the number of seeds required for planting. ### **2. Modern Measurement Systems** With modernization and integration into the global economy, the metric system has become the standard in Southern Ethiopia, especially in urban areas and official contexts: #### **a. Length** - **Meters and Centimeters:** Used in construction, education, and official documentation. #### **b. Weight** - **Kilograms and Grams:** Standard for trade, healthcare, and scientific purposes. #### **c. Volume** - **Liters and Milliliters:** Common in commerce, especially for liquid goods. #### **d. Temperature** - **Degrees Celsius:** Used in weather forecasting, healthcare, and everyday temperature measurements. ### **3. Measurement Tools and Instruments** - **Traditional Scales:** In rural markets, traditional balance scales made from locally sourced materials (like wood and metal) are still prevalent for weighing goods. - **Digital and Analytical Scales:** Increasingly available in urban centers and used in industries, healthcare, and scientific research. ### **4. Integration and Transition** While traditional scales remain important in many rural and localized settings, there is a gradual transition towards the metric system driven by education, government policies, and economic integration. This dual usage ensures that traditional practices are preserved while also facilitating broader communication and trade. ### **5. Cultural Significance** Traditional measurement scales are not just practical tools but also carry cultural significance. They reflect the community's relationship with their environment, agricultural practices, and social structures. Efforts to document and preserve these traditional systems are ongoing, recognizing their role in cultural heritage. --- **Conclusion** Southern Ethiopia showcases a rich tapestry of measurement systems blending traditional practices with modern standards. This coexistence ensures that while the region embraces contemporary advancements, it also maintains its unique cultural identity through traditional measurement scales.