Greetings Etiquette

In DRC, when you walk into a room full of people, you should shake hands and say something like "Bonjour" or "Jambo." African culture is formal, and it is important to take the time to appreciate and thank one another. When greeting each other, men (and sometimes women) will touch their heads three times from side to side and on the forehead.

Women are frequently addressed as "Mama" as a sign of respect or friendship, whereas men are addressed as "Papa." Women may also be addressed by their husbands' names. At each meeting, expect at least one team member to be asked to speak. Congolese people hold authority and elders in high regard; it is customary to thank leaders by name when they ask you to speak. Also, when someone enters the room, do not rush to greet them, especially if they are elderly.

When greeting someone, hold your right forearm with your left hand while shaking hands to show deep respect. You might overhear someone telling a friend they haven't seen in a while that she has gotten fatter. Though gaining weight is viewed negatively in the United States, it is viewed positively in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, so the comment is meant as a compliment.