Business etiquette

Rwandans prefer face-to-face and long meetings because they are a collective and relationship-based culture. People do not always respect the start, break, and end times that Anglo and Asian cultures do. It is critical that you do not become clearly frustrated by this flexible approach to time, as relationships are seen as far more important than time-related issues.

When meeting a Rwandan for the first time, stick to broad topics such as the weather. Avoid inquiring about their ethnicity, especially since Rwanda is making strides toward unifying the country as one people and one culture. Because Rwandan meetings are non-confrontational and hierarchical, they are sometimes led and dominated by the manager. People rarely express their opinions unless they are asked.

The dress code for meetings is primarily semi-formal; a lightweight suit for men or a dress with a hem below the knee for women is appropriate. Most meetings will have an agenda, but don't count on it being followed. People will try to cover all of the issues on the agenda, but they will not always follow the order on the written document. Occasionally, an unexpectedly raised issue will consume half of the meeting's time.