Manners in Cameroon

Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country

Africa / Central Africa

Greetings

  • Handshake
  • Respectful gesture of placing right hand on chest
  • Greeting with 'Bonjour' or 'Good morning'

Etiquette

  • Always greet elders first
  • Use right hand for passing items
  • Physical contact in public places should be modest
  • Prior permission required for photography in many places
  • Price negotiation is common in markets
  • Dress codes differ by region, be careful of exposure in Islamic areas
  • Taking food with left hand is considered rude
  • Relaxed about time but arriving 10 minutes early for official events is safer
  • May need to remove shoes when visiting religious facilities
  • Administrative procedures differ between anglophone and francophone regions
  • Do not casually discuss politics or separatist issues
  • Small gifts to hosts are well received
  • Taxi sharing is normal with prepayment

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