Manners in Zambia

Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country

Africa / Southern Africa

Greetings

  • Handshake
  • Lightly placing right hand on chest
  • Hug among close relationships

Etiquette

  • Use the polite honorific 'Bwana' for elders
  • Take food only with the right hand, using left hand only to support dishes
  • Photography is prohibited at military facilities, bridges, and power stations
  • When visiting villages, it is customary to greet the village chief first
  • Raising voice in public places is considered rude
  • In some areas, young people do not sit until elders are seated
  • Gifts should be handed with both hands or right hand only
  • Women's modesty is maintained by wrapping chitenge cloth around the waist
  • Punctuality is preferred in business, though flexibility exists in rural areas
  • Critical remarks about the national flag or president's portrait are taboo

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