Local Customs & Etiquette in Ouagadougou, Centre, Burkina Faso

1. Market Etiquette

Bargaining is expected in markets. Be polite and show respect to vendors.

Bargain Politeness: Avoid being too aggressive or pushy during bargaining.
Respect for Vendors: Show respect to vendors, especially elders, as a sign of good manners.
Patience: Be patient while bargaining, as it may take some time to reach an agreement.

Use your right hand for eating or shaking hands as the left is considered unclean.

Hand Usage: Never eat or touch food with your left hand.
Table Manners: Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Dining Pace: Eat at a relaxed pace and wait for others to finish before starting your meal.

A firm handshake is common. Use the right hand for greeting and showing respect.

Handshake Firmness: A firm, but not overly strong, handshake is appropriate.
Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact during the greeting to show respect and attentiveness.
Politeness: Address the person using the appropriate title of respect followed by their name.

Modest and conservative clothing is appreciated. Long sleeves and trousers are suitable for both men and women.

Coverage: Avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing.
Color Selection: Bright, bold colors are popular and stylish in Burkina Faso.
Seasonal Consideration: Dress according to the weather conditions for comfort.

Gifts are exchanged during special occasions. Avoid alcohol as it may offend.

Appropriate Gifts: Give gifts that are meaningful and not associated with alcohol.
Timing: Avoid giving gifts on the first meeting or encounter.
Reciprocity: Be prepared to receive a gift in return if you give one.

Tips are appreciated but not always expected. Round up the bill when possible.

Rounding Up: Around 10% is an acceptable tip, but rounding up the bill is a common practice.
Service Quality: Tip more for excellent service and less for poor service.
Informal Tips: Offer small tips to bellboys, porters, or taxi drivers if you appreciate their service.

Respect public spaces by not littering and keeping a clean environment.

Littering: Never litter in public spaces, as it is disrespectful to the community.
Public Spaces: Avoid using public spaces for personal activities.
Community Pride: Help keep Ouagadougou clean by disposing of waste properly.

Participate in local festivals to learn about the culture and connect with locals.

Festival Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions during festivals.
Participation: Join in the dancing, drumming, and singing during festivals.
Cultural Exchange: Exchange stories and experiences with locals to deepen your cultural understanding.

Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.

Permission: Always ask for permission before taking someone's photo.
Respect: Show respect to the people you are photographing.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of cultural sensitivities and avoid taking inappropriate photos.

Stand up for elderly or pregnant women when available seating is scarce.

Respect for Elders: Give your seat to an elder or pregnant woman if you have one.
Personal Space: Respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others.
Bus Etiquette Rules: Follow the rules posted inside the bus, such as no eating or drinking.

Be cautious when driving due to unpredictable road conditions and pedestrians.

Road Conditions: Expect potholes, animals, and other obstacles on the roads.
Pedestrians: Be aware of pedestrians who may suddenly appear on the road.
Traffic Laws: Follow local traffic laws and drive defensively.

Show appreciation for the food by saying 'Ti wo'n wala' (Thank you very much) at the end of a meal.

Food Sharing: Offer a bite of your food to others as a sign of hospitality.
Dining Pace: Eat at a relaxed pace and take breaks in between courses.
Graciousness: Be gracious when complimenting the cook on their culinary skills.

Avoid drinking tap water and ensure food is properly cooked to avoid illness.

Water Safety: Drink bottled or boiled water to prevent stomach issues.
Food Preparation: Ensure food is properly cooked and served hot.
Health Awareness: Avoid eating undercooked or raw foods to minimize the risk of illness.

Respect women's roles as leaders and decision-makers within their communities.

Gender Roles: Understand that gender roles may differ from Western societies.
Respect for Women: Treat women with respect and courtesy as they play crucial roles in society.
Empowerment: Acknowledge the important contributions of women within their communities.

Attend a music or dance performance to learn about Burkinabe culture.

Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending performances.
Rhythm Appreciation: Appreciate the rhythm and beat of Burkinabe music and dance.
Participation Encouragement: Join in the dancing if encouraged by locals to deepen your experience.