Visiting Etiquette

Building and healing relationships among friends and family members depend greatly on social visiting and entertaining. If someone does not visit them for a long time, the Sudanese may find it offensive. In South Sudan, people may visit without invitation or notice—especially children. However, people make plans in advance if the visit will last more than a few days.

Bringing a tiny gift when your visit is a kind gesture. Additionally, you can provide presents for any resident youngsters. Before entering someone's home, take off your shoes. Prior to introducing yourself to other guests, it's customary to greet the man of the house.

Prior to introducing yourself to other guests, it's customary to greet the man of the house. As soon as guests arrive, hosts serve them refreshments, first offering them water, then tea or coffee (boon). Such hospitality is something to be received and given with respect. It is impolite to decline such refreshments. This can be interpreted as an outright insult to the host. During visits, men and women may interact together or separately, depending on their tribal/ethnic heritage.