Click on a region on the map to learn more!
Meeting and Greeting
§ Handshakes are customary
§ Avoid direct eye contact (shows respect)
§ Two language business card
§ Small gifts are generally welcome
Dining and Entertaining
§ There are three meals a day
o Breakfast between 11 am and 12 pm
o Dinner between 3 and 4 pm
o Small meal between 9 and 10 pm (optional)
§ Dinner is served on a low table with decorated pillows for the guests to sit on.
§ Foods
o Lamb and chicken are favorite meats
o Rice is a staple starch
o Spoons are used with meals
§ Do not start eating until everyone is served (international)
§ Eat what is offered
General Information
§ Friendship comes before business (2-3 days before business occurs)
§ The African culture is very family oriented
§ Some areas are punctual, some are not at all. (1 hour late)
§ Things are changing
o Americanization (utensil usage)
o Punctuality
Because there are so many different countries with very different
cultures, be sure to research each country/region before leaving for there.