Travelling to Ghana means immersing yourself in a tapestry of vibrant landscapes, historic sites, and, most importantly, a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in traditions and customs. As you explore this welcoming country, understanding and respecting local customs will enrich your experience and open doors to authentic connections with Ghanaian people. Here’s a brief guide to some essential customs and etiquette to keep in mind:
1. Greetings, Respect, & Handshake Culture
In Ghana, greetings are holy, warm and friendly, often involving a unique handshake that ends with a finger snap. The snap itself symbolizes a pleasant connection, and when combined with eye contact and a polite “How are you?” (or “Ɛte sɛn?” in the Akan language), it’s a great way to show respect and make a positive impression. During your Ghana tour, when you approach a group of friends or elders to greet them, it’s customary to start shaking hands from your right-hand side and proceed in an anti-clockwise direction. Starting on the left side or moving clockwise is considered disrespectful and can be seen as an insult. Following this tradition shows respect for the group and aligns with the cultural emphasis on order and etiquette in greetings.
Politeness and respect are woven into everyday language. Visitors will notice that Ghanaians often say “yes please” or “thank you” in situations where people from other cultures might simply nod or respond with a simple “yes” or “okay”. Saying “please” is used not just to request something but to acknowledge and show regard for the person you’re interacting with. Similarly, “thank you” is used frequently, even for small gestures, as a way to express genuine gratitude and maintain a positive atmosphere. As a curious traveler in Ghana, understanding this can help you engage more meaningfully, reciprocating these phrases to show respect and immerse yourself fully in Ghanaian hospitality.
Respect for Elders: Age is deeply honored in Ghanaian culture. Upon entering a room or meeting a group, it’s customary to greet the eldest person first. If you’re seated and an elder approaches, it’s polite to stand up as a sign of respect, especially in rural areas where traditional values are firmly upheld. Sometimes, you may even need to pause drinking or eating when greeting an elder – and you may have to remove your cap as a mark of respect.
Honoring Chiefs: Chiefs hold a revered place in Ghana, from the most minor clan head (abusuapanin) to paramount leaders. When visiting a chief, it is customary to present a bottle of palm wine or dry gin. This act isn’t merely a gift; it symbolises a gesture of respect and goodwill, signifying that you come in peace and honour the chief’s authority. This tradition is also a way to ensure a warm and respectful welcome from the community.
2. Right Hand Etiquette
In Ghanaian culture, the right hand is exclusively used for eating, passing items, and gesturing. The left hand is generally reserved for personal hygiene, so using it in social interactions, especially while giving or receiving items, can be disrespectful. When receiving a gift or greeting, place your right hand on your chest as a gesture of sincere appreciation, especially when someone has gone out of their way to welcome or assist you.
3. Modest Dress at Religious and Cultural Sites
While Ghana is generally relaxed in terms of clothing, modest attire is expected at religious and sacred sites, such as mosques, churches, shrines or the chief palace. Covering shoulders and legs is customary, particularly in rural areas or during cultural ceremonies. This respect for dress codes demonstrates reverence for local beliefs and traditions. When invited to a special event or festival, consider wearing Ghanaian attire, such as the batakari (smock) and kente cloth – symbols of Ghanaian heritage and pride. Many Ghanaians see this as a respectful way to show appreciation for their culture.
4. Community Hospitality and Inclusiveness
In Ghana, community life is essential, and visitors are often invited to join in conversations, celebrations, and even meals. If you’re offered food or drink, it’s polite to accept, even if you have to take just a tiny amount. Saying “medaase” (thank you) in Twi is a great way to show appreciation. In rural areas, meals are commonly shared from a communal bowl. The tradition of eating together fosters a sense of unity. If you’re invited to share a meal, allow elders to begin first, and follow suit. In a typical traditional Ghanaian household, men and women often eat separately, with men dining with men and women with women. This practice reflects cultural values around gender roles and respect within the family and community.
5. Nonverbal Communication
Ghanaian communication tends to be polite and indirect. Avoid blunt speech or loud conversations, especially around sensitive topics. When disagreeing, responding in a way that preserves harmony is customary. Lowering your head when speaking to elders shows respect, as is common across many Ghanaian communities. In Ghana, snickering or subtle laughter, especially in formal settings can be interpreted as disrespectful. Ghanaians highly value showing respect in social interactions. What might seem like a harmless chuckle elsewhere could be perceived as mocking or dismissive in Ghana. This custom reflects the Ghanaian emphasis on maintaining dignity and seriousness in specific contexts, so visitors should be mindful to avoid misunderstandings.
Embracing these customs will help you build authentic connections and enjoy a more profound experience in Ghana. The warmth and hospitality of Ghanaians make it easy to feel welcome, and by observing these practices, you’ll gain respect and unlock memorable interactions with locals that go beyond typical sightseeing.
Whether you’re exploring the Makola market of Accra, ecotourism in the Volta region or the historic sites in Cape Coast, remember – in Ghana, it’s the small gestures that count the most. Enjoy the journey, respect the traditions, and you’ll create memories that truly last!