The Karayu are among the last Oromo – with Borena and the Guji Kamise – to maintain their pastoral lifestyle . As such, they are considered by many Oromo as guardians of traditional culture. Traditional religion is Karayu waaqeffata , a monotheistic religion based on a belief in a supreme being called Waaqa . This religion is closely linked to nature. The Oromo and the Waaqa pray in sacred sites such as lakes, water points, the peaks of some mountains but also with specific tree species, such as odaa without making animists .
