Cultural Considerations

“A child who asks questions does not become a fool.” “Knowledge is like a baobab tree; no one can encompass it with their hands. “We have one mouth and two ears”

Poverty Leaving the life of

privilege Be “local” but critically

evaluate the realities of your surroundings and relationships.

Hanging out with other Americans...

Beggars say no, walk away

(alternatives/trade) What if it is a friend, host

family, co-worker?

Scams

Don’t be afraid of local people’s motives, just be cautious

Walk away, no thanks Never show your money beforehand Keep money in separate places Assume nothing is FREE. If you can’t get a price lowered while

bargaining then ask for something additional to be added.

Dress Code

Don’t assume you are going on a safari or jungle hike!

When to wear African prints.

Be normal. Come with things you can

get rid of. Beach clothes are for the

beach only.

Unwanted Attention

White people vs. People of Color Women

Cat calls, tsssss More annoying than dangerous Sunglasses can help Don’t go alone at night Say/show you are married Ask questions rather than act angry Find a store, shop or woman/family

A little local language goes a long way

Busy places

Act busy, uninterested, walk with purpose Have a local friend who can secure your ride

and price for you. Never say the exact place you are staying. If a taxi driver doesn’t know where the hotel

is, get a new driver. Ok to pay more for your first night. Don’t change money on the street.

Girls Only

Bring supply of tampons/pads, UTI and yeast infection meds.

Birth control- pills and condoms (men too!). If you have an issue, get to a big city/capital

and see a doctor. Meet women friends.

Age Hierarchy Please respect your elders! Anyone older than you is your elder! Greet your elders! Don’t act as a young child if you are a young

adult.

LGBT issues

Criminal offense all countries in Africa except South Africa.

Be discreet if traveling with your partner. Underground scene? Yes! Same-sex hand holding, dancing, and sleep-

over= just friends

Religion Christian, Muslim, Traditional

Beliefs Learn about what is practiced

in the area you will be living. Attend a service, participate! Length of the service- hours

can turn into days! Evangelism

Anytime of the day Parades Persistence Incorporated into work,

school, love life

TIME

Americans walk funny. There is no word for stress in many African languages. Accept only the things that you can control. You will offend people when you act like your life is over if you are late, the

bus breaks down, you miss the bus, you get robbed, you are sick, etc. Americans like to 'get down to business.'  Don't do this in Africa.  Greet

properly before stating your business, even if it's just making a purchase in a store.

Eat Well!

Have fun!!!