25 Local Customs and Etiquette you should know when traveling to Ghana
Traveling across the continent of Africa has taught me that no two countries are the same. Hence, familiarizing yourself with the local customs of the country you are visiting really makes it easier to blend in and also signifies your show of respect for the customs of the people. Ghanaians are warm and welcoming to those who embrace their customs. Respecting these cultural etiquettes and being a keen observer and polite guest will enrich your experience and allow you to connect more meaningfully with the people and culture. I am going to share with you some common local customs and etiquettes of the Ghanaian community you should know before you visit.
1. Greetings
Greetings are extremely important in the Ghanaian culture. You would be surprised to know that some people will greatly take offense if you don't greet them. You are usually expected to greet people when you enter a room or place and see other people already present. Always say Good morning, afternoon or evening depending on the time of the day. When greeting elders or those deserving of the highest respect, slightly bow your head as a sign of respect if you are a male. Always greet people starting from right to left regardless of gender or age of the people gathered. The exception is when there is a chief present and in that case you are required to greet the chief first.
Also when starting a conversation, it is polite to be expected to start the conversations with a polite greeting and an inquiry into the other person's health and their family.
2. Remove your shoes before entering someone's home
Always remove your shoes before entering homes, or a place of worship like a mosque. Do not enter a Ghanaian home (only applies to the indoor area) with your outside shoes on unless your host says otherwise. Taking your outside shoes indoors is considered dirty. If you aren't sure what to do, you can always politely ask your host for guidance.
3. Using your right hand is a show of respect
Use your right hand for eating, shaking hands and giving or receiving items. In Ghanaian culture, the right hand is considered clean while the left hand is considered unclean. Growing up in Ghana, one of the biggest offenses a child could commit was taking or receiving items with their left hand, especially from an elderly person. Always use your right hand or both hands. This practice also ties to beliefs around personal hygiene.
4. Always say “please” when you want something
Saying “please” whenever you are asking for something shows good manners.” Please” should also be used if you are speaking to an elderly person. For instance, if you want someone to pass an item to you, you should say “Can you please pass this item to me”. Using “please” makes people more willing to offer assistance when you need it.
5. Always say “thank you” when someone offers assistance
It is very important in Ghanaian culture to always say “thank you” to show your appreciation whenever someone does something for you. Saying “thank you” shows your manners and makes others want to do more for you when you ask next time.
6. Don't point directly at people with your finger
In Ghanaian culture, it is disrespectful to point at people with your finger or beckon someone by crooking your index finger, as this is seen as very rude. Instead, wave with your whole hand to get their attention or make eye contact with them and nod your head.
7. Respecting the role of Traditional Elders
Traditional elders play an important role in our communities and as such, are well respected and held in high esteem. For instance, if you want to establish a project in a rural village, it is required to seek permission from the village chief before starting as it shows your respect for local traditions and authority.
8. Dress appropriately
Dress conservatively by covering your shoulders and leaving no gap between your tops and bottoms, especially in religious establishments and sacred places. Dressing appropriately is expected if you are invited to church or an event. Revealing clothing can be seen as highly disrespectful. My advice to you is, to dress to suit the occasion.
9. Taking Photos without permission
Don't take photos of people without getting their explicit permission first, as it can be seen as intrusive and rude. Always ask for permission from the person before taking a picture and if they say no, just say thank you and walk away. Also, do not take photographs of government buildings like the Flag Staff House which is the official residence of the President of Ghana and any other government buildings or military bases.
10. Avoid certain public displays of affection
Public displays of affection like kissing or intimate touching should be very minimal, as this is seen as highly inappropriate in Ghanaian culture. This also includes very intimate hugs. You will get a lot of stares from people if you do so.
11. Don't whistle to get someone's attention
To get someone's attention, do not whistle or yell out to them. This can be seen as disrespectful. Instead, call out their name or wave at them to get their attention if they are far away.
12. Shake hands gently
When shaking hands, use a gentle handshake without gripping too firmly or pulling the other person's hand, which is seen as overly aggressive. When you meet a group of adults and greet them with a handshake, start with the person on the farthest right.
13. Remove caps or hats in the presence of a chief or an elder
In Ghanaian culture, you are required to take off your hat or cap when greeting elders or when sitting in their presence. This shows respect for their authority.
14. Bringing a gift to your host
When visiting someone's home, bring a small gift like fruit, baked goods or bread for the homeowner as a gesture of appreciation for their hospitality. If you are visiting the chief's residence you can take along some whisky or if you don't know what to bring, then bring along some money in a white envelope.
15. Learn some basic “Twi” words
While English is widely spoken, making an effort to learn and use a few basic phrases in Twi or another local language will be warmly appreciated. Some common words include “Akwaba” which means welcome and “Medase” which means thank you.
16. Don’t expect people to be punctual
The concept of time is much different in Ghana than you may be used to back home. Expect delays for social invitations and sometimes official meetings. Expecting timeliness and strict schedules is unrealistic - embrace going with the flow of "Ghana Time." This mostly applies to social gatherings like weddings, parties and other related events. As a Ghanaian, I will always clarify if the time set for an appointment means Ghana time or the world standard time. That's how I know if the person is going to be late or not.
17. Don’t always accept invitations to eat
Ghanaians are very polite people and will invite you to their food but sometimes it doesn't really mean they want you to join them in eating. This can be a bit confusing but always read the room. For instance, if you know the person inviting you, then it might be ok to join them but if it is a stranger or someone you don't know very well, chances are they are just trying to be polite.
18. People will sometimes ask personal questions
You should be prepared to be asked personal questions about your family, relationships, etc. which isn't seen as intrusive. For instance, if you are a young person, some elderly Ghanaian will enquire about your marital status and some will even go as far as to try and set you up if you are single. Don't take offense when this happens as some people think they are just being helpful. If someone asks you personal questions you don't feel comfortable answering, then you can politely let them know.
19. Do not wear camouflage clothing
You are not allowed to wear camouflage clothing in Ghana or any military style clothing. This is because these colors are reserved for the military and wearing them might cause other people to mistake you as part of the military.
20. Don't cross your legs in the presence of elders
Crossing your legs or having your hands in your pockets in the presence of elders, especially chiefs, is frowned upon. Doing so is considered disrespectful.
21. Always offer water to guests
In Ghana, it is expected to offer water to your guests after you have said your Greetings and offered them a seat. Offering water is considered polite and a show of your hospitality to your guests.
22. Always walk your guests out after their visit
When a guest visits you and is about to take their leave, it is polite to see them out and walk with them to their car or the bus stop. To say goodbye at the door is thought of as a sign of inhospitality, unless you are clearly busy or cannot leave the house.
23. Respect social status hierarchies
Respect is a very important aspect of the African culture. The idea of respect for one’s elders is limitless. Age and social status hierarchies influence many factors within the society, such as the arrangement of the houses and villages and even seating positions at ceremonies.
When a younger person is speaking to an older person, they are expected to be polite in their use of language.
24. Bargaining is expected in local markets
As a tradition in Africa, buyers and sellers are expected to bargain for better prices. Make sure you bargain and do not feel obligated to buy products at the first price that is quoted to you. My advice is, to pay as much as you are comfortable with paying for that item. The way I bargain is to go to a few different stalls to get a feel for how much something should cost if I am not sure. If a vendor quotes a price that is too much, it is often because he or she expects the price to be bargained down, so try not to get too defensive. Bargaining does not apply to supermarkets or boutiques that have fixed prices, labeled on the products. The most you can do in such places is ask for a discount if you are buying a lot of items.
25. Don't get involved in local politics
As a foreigner visiting, it is advisable to stay away from politics and religious politics. Every community has its own politics, beliefs and lifestyle. Observe and appreciate it from afar and don't involve yourself when it is not necessary.
Conclusion
These cultural practices emphasize respect, restraint, and deference to elders and social hierarchies in Ghanaian culture. Remaining aware and following these norms as a visitor fosters a connection with locals. Displaying patience, humility, and cultural sensitivity are crucial for travelers to Ghana. Following these etiquette norms shows respect and allows you to connect more authentically with Ghanaians during your travels. An open mindset goes a long way! Always ask for explanations if you don't understand the customs.
You can always contact me if you have more questions or concerns and would like to speak to a local expert for some assistance. Explore Ghana and create new memories for yourself.
Share your thoughts on these local customs and etiquette and let me know those you are already familiar with and those you have never heard of.
Safe travels!
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Hello, fellow adventurers! I'm Rashida, your not-so-typical travel guide. Join me for laughs, mishaps, and perhaps a questionable decision or two (because let's face it, those always make for the best stories). Learn More
