[Photos] A Day in the Life of Ninh Thuan's Shepherds

Words by

July 31, 2017

In Ninh Thuan province, local shepherds lead a nomadic life, traversing the region's barren land to look after some of the country’s largest sheep herds.

According to Nhan Dan, in Vietnam, sheep are reared for their meat, instead of wool. Therefore, these creatures are usually seen with blemished coats as they are commonly left to graze on their own in muddy areas without frequent grooming.

Many of Ninh Thuan’s shepherds come from the Cham ethnic minority and are hired by ranch owners on a seasonal basis. Their typical work day lasts from 8am to 11pm. After a short lunch of rice and dried anchovies, the shepherds move the sheep to another field to feed until 5pm when they’re ushered back to the ranch.

Step into the shoes of Vietnam’s shepherds in Ninh Thuan province through the collection of photos below: