Understanding Cultural Norms in Kenya: A Beginner’s Guide
Cultural norms vary across the globe, with each society having unique values, beliefs, and practices. For those looking to visit, live in or work with Kenyans, it’s vital to understand their cultural norms to prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications. In this article, we’ll discuss the cultural norms in Kenya that can help you have a better understanding of the society.
Greetings are Crucial
Greetings are an essential aspect of social interactions in Kenya and are regarded as an act of respect and friendliness. In Kenya, people rarely greet each other by their names. Instead, they use honorifics like “Mzee” for an elderly man, “Mama” for an older woman and “Ndugu” for a young person. Expect to greet everyone you meet, including strangers in all social settings, be it a workplace or social event.
Elders are Respected
In Kenya, the older generation is highly respected, and being rude to an elderly person is considered to be an unforgivable act. The elders often have the final say in family and community decisions. It’s considered polite to stand up when an older person enters a room or when greeting them.
Gender Roles
Gender roles are evident within the Kenyan society, with men considered the providers while women manage the home. However, things are changing, and women’s role in society is shifting, and more women are getting into leadership and decision-making positions.
Food Preferences
Most Kenyans prefer to eat local foods like ugali, chapati, and rice served with meat or vegetarian dishes. Eating with the right hand is considered a norm, and the left hand should not touch food or be used to greet or shake hands.
Hospitality
Kenyan hospitality is renowned. Visitors are regarded as a blessing to the home, and it’s common for hosts to go out of their way to make their guests feel comfortable, including offering them a meal and a place to sleep.
Language
Swahili and English are the recognized languages in Kenya, with over 40 local tribal languages. Swahili is the language of communication, so it’s worthwhile learning some basic words to help socialize and communicate effectively.
Conclusion
Cultural norms in Kenya are unique and should be understood to avoid misunderstandings and improve social interactions. Respect for elders, greetings, and hospitality are some of the key cultural norms worth noting. Understanding the culture will ensure that visitors can quickly immerse themselves into Kenyan society and build strong relationships with locals.
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