Etiquette in Africa

AfricaThe northern nations:

bound by language, religion, resources

Algeria, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Ghana, Libya, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal

The black countries: Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda,

Zambia

South Africa

African Languages

BilingualOfficial languages:

French: Ivory Coast

English & Swahili: Kenya

English & Afrikaans: South Africa

The Northern Countries (Islamic):

Greetings:• Shaking hands• Elaborate greeting: Egypt• Last name and title

Removing shoes when entering someone’s house or a mosquePresenting gifts: both hands or the right hand

No gesturing with left handNo alcohol (esp. in Libya)Not meeting the hostess (Libya, Morocco)Making appointment in advanceBe punctual (not the locals)Weekend: Saturday to Thursday

Special Dining Etiquettes

Egypt– It is not polite to eat everything on

your plate.Zambia–

You should ask for food, as it is impolite for the host to offer food first.

It is improper to refuse food.

Flowers are not recommended to be used as gifts in what countries?

TanzaniaKenya—showing condolences

In which country you should tip people when you ask them to take pictures with you?

Kenya

In which country you should avoid direct eye contact with members of the opposite sex? Why?

ZambiaIt may suggest romantic overtures.

In which country it is important to establish a feeling of friendship and trust before business is transacted?

Egypt