Tanzania: Etiquette

The Tanzanians are considered to be a very welcoming, and although they are a very informal people, there are rules for most interactions. So let’s get straight to the point! Here is what you really need to know:

Greetings are of great importance, so make sure to inquire about how one is doing before jumping into conversation!

When visiting, whether it is for a dinner or a mid afternoon chat with a pal, it’s considered rude to show up on time. So go ahead and show up fashionably late.There are several rules when it comes to chowing down, but here are the most vital:

• Muslims should not be offered pork or ham and many do not drink alcohol!
• Meals are served from a communal bowl and utensils may not be available for use. (I can hear Mom now “Use your fork!!”)
• Tanzanians only use the right hand when eating without utensils, so I'd advise you do the same!

Now on to what you DON’T want to do. Here are some Taboo’s ( Hey! that rhymed)

• It is usually unacceptable for women to walk around in shorts, or tank tops, and in some cases pants. Women are expected to dress in a modest way; skirts below the knees and shirts with sleeves. In other words, just make sure you are fully covered, it will help protect against ticks as well.

• Do not touch anything with your left hand, such as produce at the market. Some people may not be as strict about this but just assume that most are.

• It is considered rude to let the bottom of one’s foot or shoe point at someone. Feet shouldn’t be propped up on chairs or tables, so leave the lazyboy tendencies at home.

• Lastly, always ask permission before taking a photograph. There are many taboos in Africa about cameras; a lot of people do not like their photo to be taken!