ETIQUETTES AND GESTURES IN

AFRICA

YO U N EED
TO K N OW
B EFORE YOU
T R AV EL TO
AF R IC A
 GREETING – HELLO AND A
HANDSHAKE

A quick “hello”, paired with a handshake is

a sufficient way to make a positive first
impression with anyone.
 SHOW RESPECT TO ELDERS

Always acknowledge an elder, let them

ask questions, and during mealtime
elders should be served first
POINTING AT THINGS
Considered rude or just straight
offensive
OVERHAND MOTION CALLING
Avoid motioning to call a person
with an upwards palm. The preferred
method is to call someone with
the palm face down and pulling
the fingers inwards.
SOLE OF THE FOOT
The very bottom of your foot
is the very dirtiest part of
your body. Try not to directly
point your foot sole towards anyone.
LEFT HAND PROHIBITION
 Never salute with the left hand
 Do not eat with your left hand
 It does not matter if you are left handed
 Do not matter if you are left handed
 Do not write someone’s name using the left hand

“Whatever you do, don’t touch AFRICAN FOOD

with your left hand!”
SILENCE IS AN AFRICAN VALUE
When there’s something to be said, it
will be said; when there’s nothing to
be said, silence is perfectly fine.
EYE CONTACT - THREATENING
 Eye contact is threatening
 Always look slightly to the side as
you maintain the conversation.
 You can occasionally establish
DO NOT PUBLICLY SHOW
ANGER, FRUSTRATION, OR
IMPATIENCE
POSITIVE
COMMUNICATION
DON’T TALK TOO MUCH DURING MEAL

Simple small talk is permissible, don’t try

to talk too much business or
seriousness during meal. Serious issues
are handled after the meal.
RECEIVE A GIFT WITH BOTH HANDS

If someone graciously gives you a gift, a

non-verbal way to show extreme
thankfulness is to accept at with both
hands outstretched.
BELCHING AFTER MEAL
It is polite to belch after a meal
It is a sign that one has been fed
fully
It is an appreciation gesture