[dropcap custom_class=”normal”] Here are some interesting facts about Ghanaian customs are etiquette; [/dropcap]
Meeting Etiquette
• Traditional or native greetings vary among the various ethnic groups.
• With foreigners the most common greeting is the handshake with a smile.
• When shaking hands between themselves Ghanaians will hold the right hand in the normal manner but will then twist and click each other’s middle finger.
• Unless you are experienced it is best to stick to a normal handshake!
• Christians will generally shake hands between the sexes; practising Muslims often will not shake hands with people of the opposite sex.
• Address Ghanaians by their academic, professional, or honorific title and their surname.
• As a sign of respect, males over the age of 30 may be addressed as “pah-pah” while women of the same age may be called mah-mee. People over the age of 50 may be referred to as nah-nah.
Gift Giving Etiquette
• Gifts need not be expensive; the thought is more important than the value.
• If invited to dinner at a Ghanaian’s home, you are not expected to bring a gift.
• However, a gift for the children is always a nice touch as it shows a concern for family.
• Gifts should be given using the right hand only or both hands. Never use the left hand.
• Gifts should be wrapped, although there are no cultural taboos concerning paper color.
• Gifts are not always opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
• Ghanaians enjoy entertaining in their homes and you should accept any invitation as a sign of friendship.
• Dress well; Ghanaians place a lot of emphasis on how people dress. You may needto remove your shoes.
• Greet elders of heads of family first.
• Ghanaians table manners are relatively formal.
• Wait to be told where to sit.
• A washing basin will be brought out before the meal is served; use it to wash your hands.
• Food is generally served from a communal bowl.
• Do not begin eating until the eldest male does.
• Eat from the section of the bowl that is in front of you. Never reach across the bowl to get something from the other side.
• If you do not want to eat with your hands then ask for utensils.
• If you use your hands then scoop the food with the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand. Do not use your left hand.
Article by Anilyn Hepowit
Source : tours42plus.com