Displaying Emotions Publicly

Most Ugandans are not comfortable expressing their emotions in public, unless it is during a public event such as a celebration or a death. Ugandans, in particular, frown upon public displays of affection for members of the opposite sex, such as holding hands, embracing, or kissing. Surprisingly, walking hand-in-hand with friends of the same sex is fairly common. Don't be surprised if a close Ugandan friend reaches out and grabs your hand a few minutes into your lengthy conversation. It's a nice gesture, and it's especially appropriate for hammering home a point.

In terms of intra-gender relationships, homosexuality is practically unheard of in Uganda, to the point where it would take some pretty bold behavior for anyone to take offense or attack you. So try to hold off on asserting your gay rights and instead enjoy your Uganda safari vacation. No Ugandan will be interested in your sexual orientation. When it comes to publicly displaying anger, Ugandans will ignore anyone who is unknown. Even the person you think you're reprimanding with an outburst of rage may simply walk away to avoid conflict.

Some minibus-taxi conductors in the particular act in a manner that positively invites an aggressive response, and when traveling independently, you’ll occasionally meet other road user’s displays of impatience. Frankly, many bystanders will not take offense if you responded to a pushy peddler with a display of anger, if only because the provocateur’s behavior itself goes against the norm. By contrast, losing your temper will almost certainly be counterproductive when dealing with obtuse officials, dopey waiters, and hotel employees, or unco-operative safari drivers.