I never get tired of saying that Ghana welcomes visitors with warmth and hospitality. As a diasporan, understanding cultural etiquette in Ghana will help you integrate smoothly and show respect for local traditions. For one, you will be giving utmost respect, and two, it will help you get along with the locals.
Whether you plan to visit or settle, following Ghanaian cultural etiquette strengthens your relationships and enhances your experience. Let’s look at some of these cultural norms, and see what we can learn from Ghanaian traditions.
1. Greetings: A Sign of Respect
Ghanaians take greetings seriously. This wasn’t hard for me to adapt. Growing up in Jamaica, I had to say good morning and good evening everywhere I went. I even said it more that the average person. A simple “hello” won’t suffice. Instead, they expect a warm and engaging exchange. Always greet before starting a conversation. Skipping this step may come across as rude. Don’t be hard on yourself though. Learning cultural etiquette in Ghana may take time, but the good news is that it’s achievable.
How to Greet Properly in Ghana
- Say “Good morning” (Maakye), “Good afternoon” (Maaha), or “Good evening” (Maadwo) before anything else.
- Use a handshake, often accompanied by a friendly finger snap, especially among men.
- When greeting elders, bow your head slightly and use your right hand to shake theirs.
Failing to greet properly can make interactions awkward. Make this a habit to earn respect from locals.
2. Always Use Your Right Hand
I once lived with a Ghanaian person and at that time I learnt the power of the right hand. Ghanaians consider the right hand very sacred. Always use it when giving, receiving, or eating. Using your left hand may offend, as it is associated with unclean tasks.
When to Use Your Right Hand:
- Hand money, gifts, or documents with your right hand.
- Shake hands using your right hand.
- Eat traditional meals like fufu or banku with your right hand.
If your right hand is occupied, briefly apologize before using the left. This small effort shows you respect social customs in Ghana.
3. Show Respect to Elders
Respect for elders forms the foundation of cultural etiquette in Ghana. This is a custom in most African cultures and Ghana is no exception. I learnt this while growing up in the rural area of Jamaica. Respect is due to elders. If you’re new to Ghana, pay attention to how locals interact with older people.
How to Show Respect:
- Address elders as “Uncle,” “Auntie,” “Papa,” or “Mama,” even if they are strangers.
- Stand when an elder enters a room or takes a seat.
- Support your right elbow with your left hand when receiving items from an elder.
By following these small but meaningful gestures, you show appreciation for Ghanaian values.
Video about Ghanaian Etiquette: @VanessaKanbi
4. Dining Etiquette: What You Need to Know
Ghanaians are big on dining. During my first visit, there was this lady who casually invited me to have dinner at her house with her family. Even though I couldn’t make it, I realized how much Ghanaians value dining together. Yet, eating in Ghana comes with unspoken rules. If you receive an invitation to dine, follow these guidelines to avoid offending your host.
Ghanaian Dining Etiquette:
- Wash your hands before eating, even if using utensils.
- Wait for the eldest person at the table to start before you begin.
- If sharing a meal from a communal bowl, take food from your side only.
- Offer a polite “You’re invited” to those around before eating.
Observing these customs makes mealtime more enjoyable and respectful.
5. Dress Modestly and Appropriately to Respect Cultural Etiquette in Ghana
Ghanaians take pride in dressing well. Though urban areas welcome Western clothing, certain settings require modest attire.
What to Wear in Ghana:
- Dress conservatively when visiting churches, mosques, or traditional events.
- Wear black or red at funerals, as bright colors may seem disrespectful.
- Try local fabrics like kente or batakari—they are stylish and culturally appropriate.
Following Ghana etiquette for newcomers in fashion choices helps you blend in and show cultural awareness.
6. Public Behavior: What to Do and Avoid
Ghanaians value patience, respect, and community harmony. Certain behaviors may offend locals, so understanding things not to do in Ghana as a foreigner will help you adapt quickly.
Do’s and Don’ts:
✅ Stay calm and polite in public disputes.
✅ Accept food and drinks with your right hand.
✅ Be mindful of personal space in social settings.
❌ Avoid public displays of anger or frustration.
❌ Refrain from excessive public affection (PDA).
❌ Don’t refuse gifts or food outright—politely decline if necessary.
Understanding how to interact with elders and locals in Ghana will help you avoid cultural misunderstandings.
7. The Art of Gift-Giving As Part of Cultural Etiquette in Ghana
Ghanaians appreciate generosity, and giving gifts strengthens relationships. However, there are etiquette rules to follow.
Gift-Giving Rules in Ghana:
- Always hand over gifts with your right hand.
- If gifting money, place it in an envelope instead of handing it directly.
- Small tokens like fruits, drinks, or snacks make thoughtful gifts when visiting someone’s home.
This simple gesture can go a long way in building strong connections.
Final Thoughts
Adjusting to cultural etiquette in Ghana as a diasporan takes time, but making an effort will earn you respect. Some diasporans, like myself, will be accustomed to some of these cultural norms, but there is always some learning to be done. Spend some time and educate yourself on how to greet and show respect in Ghanaian culture.
Whether it’s using your right hand for interactions or following proper etiquette when dining, respecting Ghanaian norms will get you a long way.
Ghana’s warmth and hospitality await you—embrace the culture, respect its traditions, and enjoy every moment of your journey!
