Nothing is so uncomfortable as being caught-up between deciding how to behave and not having the chance to do so especially if you're in a foreign land!
We understand that studying abroad can be a life-changing experience and, should you choose Rwanda, our RocApply tips and guides will enhance what will already be a wonderful trip by helping you also understand the culture and etiquette in Rwanda.
We recommend that you thoroughly go through this guide to enhance your peaceable stay with the Rwandarians.
One best way to understand how a certain culture span is through knowing the dos and don'ts in that particular country! We have therefore made sure you become well-versed on these once you step into the 'Singapore of Africa'.
We intend to lighten your adjustment period hereby shading a few insights that will go a long way to making you new acquaintances in the country. What are we waiting for? Let's get started...
These are things you should know about Rwandans...
- When men greet women– appropriate greetings depend on the nature of the relationship and region. A handshake is usually common but it's best to wait for the woman to extend her hand, otherwise, a bow or a nod of acknowledgment will be perfectly fine.
- When gesturing or beckoning for someone to come over, you should face your palm downwards and make a scratching motion with the fingers.
- It is rude to point at people, as pointing is reserved for dogs, so usually, the whole hand is used.
- Personal space tends to be very minimal. People often talk very close to each other and less than an arm’s length is common in most scenarios.
- When two people of the same sex are talking, touching is acceptable. It is common to touch the hands, arms, and shoulders as well as hold hands while strolling. This is seen as a signal of friendship.
- Rwanda is going through a transition when it comes to gender roles; however, it is still a male-dominant country. Over the past several years, women have made dramatic gains in inequality. In rural areas, women continue their traditional roles in bearing children, preparing meals, and working in the fields.
- Many Rwandan men enjoy drinking beer, but women rarely drink alcohol in any kind. They do drink tea with lots of milk and sugar.
- Refusing to take offered food or drink is considered rude. Hosts typically sip from drinks and taste the food first before passing them to the guests to show that they are safe for consumption.
- Don’t ask about someone’s ethnicity or referring to someone as Hutu or Tutsi.
- Rwanda is a delicate country whose deep wounds are healing. The government is working hard to ensure that Rwandans heal together, to avoid another conflict in the future. To do so, they have emphasized the idea that ethnicity no longer exists, that everyone is simply Rwandan.
- Dress appropriately. People here take pride in their appearance and tend to dress up. Visitors should make an effort to dress well in the capital (i.e. no safari wear). Do not wear shorts they are only worn by Rwandan schoolboys.
- While it is rare for Rwandan women in rural areas to wear pants, it is perfectly acceptable for foreign women to wear pants in the field and the cities. When outside the capital, it is acceptable to wear more rugged clothing (except shorts).
Rwandans are people full of compassion and courtesy! This is evidenced by the level of security and peace the country offers. You will likely stay for the entirety of your study period unbothered here! There is no need to contemplate about studying here. The country lives up to its fame! Make your application today with RocApply and get started to roll with everyone else here.
" Its a place to be" - Martin from Canada
