Global Markets

Mayrik have established security and commercial partners in many countries where cultural and business etiquette is critical to the development and success of business deal's, in order to help our clients progress their business opportunities we would like to share the information below with you, please click on the map points highlighted for an insight into the business etiquette of the countries we and our partners, have experience in.

Mayrik, helping our clients by understanding the differences and bridging the gaps

Ghana

Introduction

When in Ghana, beware of what you take photographs of. If you want to take pictures of people, ask them first. Many will happily say yes, but some may try to charge you a fee. Sometimes people may fear that by getting their picture taken their soul will be captured, so be aware of that and always ask before snapping a photo.

Do not take photos at government or military buildings, prisons, or airports, and seek permission before photographing sacred grounds. In Ghana, you will find the people to be friendly and welcoming. Nevertheless, Ghanaians, particularly those in villages, can be very conservative and in order to be respectful, it's important to learn a bit about their traditions and etiquette. Below are some etiquette tips to take with you on your trip to Ghana.

In Ghana, most people are incredibly patient and hospitable, and many enjoy having people visit their country. However, in order to blend in a little better and respect the customs and Ghana's heritage, keep the above etiquette in mind. Have a wonderful trip!

Religion

Ghana has the highest percentage of Christians in West Africa with Christians making up 60% of the population thereafter it is 15% Muslim and 25% traditional African religions. Belief in traditional animist religions is still extremely common.

Appearance

Remove your hat when speaking to an elderly person or a chief, as it shows respect for their traditions.
Dress somewhat modestly. Shorts, t-shirts, and the like are fine, though some elderly people might find some of those clothes offensive. In the Northern parts of Ghana it's also wise to dress a little more conservatively.
Wear business suits for formal meetings otherwise, lightweight suits and cotton dresses are suitable.

Behaviour

Enjoy an alcoholic beverage at a local bar, but avoid getting noticeably intoxicated in public. If you don't drink alcohol and are poured a drink, raise your drink to your lips without sipping it, and then pour your drink on the ground. This is socially acceptable.
Do not eat with your left hand.
Pay for a meal at a restaurant, if you are the one who initiated the invitation.
Do not tip unless the service was particularly good. Keep in mind that tipping is not customary in Ghana, but if you enjoyed the service, a small tip (5%-10%) is appropriate.
You can give a gift of Schnapps or gin.
Don’t give or receive gifts with the left hand.
Make an appointment for a meeting in advance, preferably between September and April.
Do not be late to any business appointment
Do not take pictures of sacred grounds without permission.
Do not take pictures at the State House, prisons, airports, etc.
Ask someone before taking their picture. Usually they will happily say yes, though some might try to charge you a fee. Sometimes people will worry that you might capture their soul if you photograph them, so be aware of that and always seek permission before taking a picture of someone.
Don’t blow your nose at the dinner table
Don’t use your left hand to give or receive items, point at things, or wave at a person.
Don’t sit with your legs crossed among elders or chiefs.
Expect to see members of the same sex holding hands, especially outside of major cities.
Expect to be given a seat and a glass of water to drink when visiting a Ghanaian's home. You then might be asked the purpose of your visit.

Communications

Don’t shake hands with your left hand.
Shake hands again upon departing.
Greet everyone present, including kids, and start with the most elderly
Don’t use your left hand to give or receive items, point at things, or wave at a person.
Don’t sit with your legs crossed among elders or chiefs
Greet with a handshake and a smile.
Greet everyone present, including kids, and start with the most elderly.