When there’s something to be said, it will be said when there’s nothing to be said, silence is perfectly fine. Silence is an African Valueĭon’t be alarmed or nervous with spans of silence during African conversation. If you are not expecting it, the sounds might come as a surprise, but it’s totally acceptable and very common. To call the attention of someone is often performed with a hissing or loud smack of the lips. Whatever you do, don’t touch African food with your left hand! 7.
You might have heard this before, the right hand is for eating food and the left hand is reserved for the unsanitary task of what happens afterward. Try not to directly point your foot sole towards anyone. Just like in many cultures around the world, the very bottom of your foot is the very dirtiest part of your body. The preferred method is to call someone over with the palm faced down and pulling the fingers inwards.Įnter your email and I’ll send you the best travel food content. Overhand Motion CallingĪvoid motioning to call a person with an upwards palm. Different ethnic groups have different ways of pointing, but the method I usually employ is poking my chin in the right direction and widening my eyes. Pointing at something or someone with the index finger is usually considered rude or just straight offensive – it’s not something you want to do. Always acknowledge an elder, let them ask questions, and during mealtime elders should be served first. Show Respect to EldersĪfrican cultural values are based on a foundation of the past and present, a leading reason why elders are so well respected. A quick “hello,” paired with a handshake is a sufficient way to make a positive first impression with anyone. Greeting people in Africa is one of the most important things you can do. In an effort to contextualize and be mindful of a complex mindset and worldview, here are a few African cultural values to be aware of when traveling in Africa! 1. In Africa, actions speak louder than words, especially if there is a barrier between languages.
African Cultural Values – Democratic Republic of Congo
0 kommentar(er)
