Culture of South Africa

South African Society & Culture 

  

South Africa is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. In urban areas many different ethnic groups will make up the population. In addition to the indigenous black peoples of South Africa colonialism and immigration have brought in white Europeans, Indians, Indo-Malays, Chinese and many more. As such it is difficult to generalise at all on South African etiquettes and culture due to the diversity.

 Languages in South Africa

South Africa has 11 official languages.  English is the language of administration and is spoken throughout the country. The other official languages are: Afrikaans, Ndeble , Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho, Swazi, Tsongo, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa  and Zulu .

Etiquette & Customs in South Africa

Meeting Etiquette

• There are several greeting styles in South Africa depending upon the ethnic heritage of the person you are meeting.
• When dealing with foreigners, most South Africans shake hands while maintaining eye contact and smiling.
• Some women do not shake hands and merely nod their head, so it is best to wait for a woman to extend her hand.

Gift Giving Etiquette

• In general, South Africans give gifts for birthdays and Christmas.
• Two birthdays - 21 and 40 - are often celebrated with a large party in which a lavish gift is given. It is common for several friends to contribute to this gift to help defray the cost.
• If you are invited to a South African's home, bring flowers or good quality chocolatess.
• Wrapping a gift nicely shows extra effort.
• Gifts are opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

If you are invited to a South African's house:

• Arrive on time if invited to dinner.
• Contact the hostess ahead of time to see if she would like you to bring a dish.
• Offer to help the hostess with the preparation or clearing up after a meal is served.

Dress Etiquette

• Business attire is becoming more informal in many companies. However, for the first meeting, it is best to dress more conservatively.
• Men should wear dark coloured conservative business suits.
• Women should wear elegant business suits or dresses.