Local Customs & Etiquette in Conakry, Guinea

1. Handshake etiquette

A firm, two-handed handshake is the standard greeting in Conakry. It shows respect and establishes a connection.

Respectful Greeting: Handshakes are used to show respect, especially with people of higher status or authority.
Firmness: The handshake should be firm but not too tight or rough.
Two-handed: Handshakes are typically two-handed in Conakry, unlike some other cultures where one hand is used.

Women should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. Bright colors are popular, especially during special occasions.

Modesty: Covering shoulders and knees is considered modest and respectful.
Bright Colors: Bright colors are associated with happiness and vibrancy in Guinean culture.
Special Occasions: During special occasions, women may wear traditional dresses called boubous.

Men typically wear trousers and a shirt. Long-sleeved shirts are preferred during formal occasions.

Formality: The level of formality in clothing depends on the occasion.
Trousers and Shirt: This is the standard casual attire for men in Conakry.
Long-sleeved Shirts: Long-sleeved shirts are preferred during formal occasions to show respect.

Elders are greeted with a bow and the phrase 'Tiesso' or 'Yalla'. Showing respect to elders is highly valued.

Respect for Elders: In Guinean culture, elders are held in high esteem and shown great respect.
Bowing: The bow is a sign of humility and respect towards elders.
Greeting Phrase: The phrase 'Tiesso' or 'Yalla' is used to greet elders, which means 'Respectable One'.

Eating with the right hand is customary in Conakry. This is a sign of cleanliness and respect.

Cleanliness: Eating with the right hand ensures food does not touch the left hand, which is used for cleaning.
Respect: Using the right hand shows respect and courtesy during meals.
Customary: This practice is deeply rooted in Guinean culture and considered customary.

When visiting someone's home, it's customary to offer food before eating. The host will then choose what to eat.

Hospitality: Offering food is a sign of hospitality and welcoming the guest.
Host's Choice: The host decides what to eat, showing respect for their choice.
Customary Offering: This custom is deeply ingrained in Guinean culture and considered respectful.

When asking for directions, it's polite to say 'Kolimakan' (Excuse me) first.

Politeness: Saying 'Kolimakan' shows respect and consideration.
Asking for Directions: This phrase is used to ask for directions in Conakry.
Respectful Communication: Starting with 'Kolimakan' sets the tone for a respectful and friendly interaction.

Bargaining is common and expected in markets. It's important to remain polite and not become aggressive.

Common Practice: Bargaining is a normal part of buying goods in markets.
Politeness: Politeness is key during bargaining to maintain a good relationship.
Patience: Patience is required when bargaining as it can take time to reach an agreement.

Gifts are often given with both hands and should be opened later. The gift giver should not force the recipient to open it immediately.

Respect: Giving gifts shows respect for the recipient.
Two-handed: Gifts are given with both hands as a sign of respect.
Opening Later: The recipient should open the gift later, showing appreciation and consideration.

When receiving a gift, it's important to accept it with both hands and express gratitude.

Respectful Acceptance: Accepting the gift with both hands shows respect for the giver.
Gratitude: Expressing gratitude is important when receiving a gift.
Two-handed: Accepting the gift with both hands is a sign of respect and gratitude.

When entering someone's home, it's customary to remove your shoes and wash your hands.

Cleanliness: Removing shoes keeps the house clean.
Respect for Home: Washing hands shows respect for the cleanliness of the home.
Customary Practice: This practice is considered customary and respectful.

The official language in Guinea is French. However, Susu, Malinke, and Fula are also widely spoken.

French as Official Language: French is the language used for government and formal communication.
Widely Spoken Local Languages: Susu, Malinke, and Fula are commonly spoken in Guinea.
Bilingualism: Many Guineans are bilingual or multilingual, speaking both French and a local language.

Islam is the predominant religion in Guinea, followed by Christianity. Traditional African religions are also practiced.

Predominant Religion: Islam is followed by the majority of Guineans.
Christianity: Christianity is practiced by a significant minority in Guinea.
Traditional African Religions: Traditional African religions are still practiced by many Guineans, often alongside Islam or Christianity.

The Festival of the Masks is a traditional event held in Kankan. It showcases various masks and dances representing Guinean culture.

Cultural Showcase: The festival provides a unique insight into Guinean culture.
Traditional Masks and Dances: Various masks and dances are showcased during the festival.
Kankan Location: The event takes place in Kankan, a city known for its rich cultural heritage.

Guinea's Independence Day is celebrated on October 2. It commemorates the country's independence from France in 1958.