culture & diversity in uganda
Waving goodbye
The way we wave in America with the palm or the four half-fingers in Uganda is a gesture which tells the person(s) come here. So if you want say goodbye, just use your whole hand to wave bye bye, and if you say goodbye, most people know what it means or you can say, “Welabba.”
Hospitality
In Uganda the idea is “Here you belong to everyone.” You will see more people coming to say hi or welcome you or even give you a gift.
Hugging
In Uganda people hug on both sides of the shoulders. Carry hand wipes/hand sanitizer and be prepared to shake hands with every kid who will want to say hi. Normally people will want to shake hands with you or give you a hug. In rural Buganda, shaking and holding hands is a common practice for both men and women. It is appropriate to shake hands when being introduced to somebody, when visiting somebody in their house, or when you haven’t seen somebody for a while. Hugging is also common for both men and women. It is appropriate to hug if you haven’t seen a friend for a while. Kissing in public is frowned upon.
Dress Code
The people of Uganda generally take great pride in their appearance. You will probably feel underdressed if you only bring old, casual clothing. Female visitors will likely feel more comfortable in skirts and dresses for church and presentations. Male visitors should plan to bring trousers and button-up shirts. If you are presenting (Leadership Team), you are encouraged to dress semi-formally. For the ladies, you can wear a dress, skirt etc. For men, please wear a long sleeved dress shirt, a short sleeved dress shirt, or a golf polo shirt with trousers. You will not need to wear ties or suits. It will most likely be warm. VBS, please be casual in shorts, capris etc. Medical team, please wear your scrubs or your white coat. Construction crew, feel free to be casual as your work and mobility demands.
Age
Older guests may get more attention as a sign of respect while younger folks are received as children of the house. In rural Uganda, being an older person is a sign of wisdom and great experience. The idea is you are an elder and when the community gathers for meetings, the elders speak last. It is believed that an older person is able to teach the young. Ugandans can be especially curious about the age of the guests and other things that we consider non-conversation topics in America. It is not a way of insulting, but rather for conversation. Some may pick on something we would consider taboo in America. Please know that in Uganda you are a unique individual and anything about you such as your hair, skin color, attire etc. may arouse curiosity. If anything you consider offensive in America is said to you, such as “how old are you”, please keep in mind the cultural context you are in.
