Cultural Etiquette You Need to Know Before Shadowing in Africa

Essential Tips for Medical, Pre-Health, and Nursing Interns

Shadowing in Africa, whether through a short-term internship or elective. is an eye-opening opportunity to gain global healthcare experience. But success in your internship isn’t just about clinical exposure; it also depends on your ability to navigate local cultural norms and professional etiquette.

From how you greet your supervisors to how you behave in the hospital ward, understanding African cultural dynamics is crucial for respectful, impactful engagement.

Here’s your essential guide to cultural etiquette before starting your medical or healthcare internship in Africa, especially in countries like Kenya and Tanzania where Go Elective operates.

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1. Greetings Matter — A Lot

In many African cultures, greetings are not just polite. They’re expected. Failing to greet someone properly can be seen as disrespectful.

• Use a handshake (right hand only) and eye contact when meeting someone, especially hospital staff.
• Greet elders and senior professionals first as a sign of respect.
• In Kenya or Tanzania, it’s common to say “Habari” (How are you?) or “Shikamoo” (a respectful greeting to elders in Swahili).

Tip: Even if you’re unsure of the language, a warm “Good morning, Doctor” goes a long way in building rapport.

2. Dress Modestly and Professionally

Appearance carries weight in African hospital settings. Your attire communicates your respect for the institution and your role as a student intern.

• Scrubs or a clean lab coat are typically appropriate in clinical areas.
• Avoid revealing clothing, ripped jeans, or overly casual wear — even outside the hospital.
• Closed-toe shoes are required in clinical environments.
• Tattoos and piercings may be less accepted in rural settings; cover them if unsure.

Go Elective provides interns with a pre-departure guide on recommended attire specific to your placement site.

3. Respect Hierarchies in the Hospital

African healthcare systems are often hierarchical. Understanding this structure helps you avoid awkward moments and build better relationships.

• Always address doctors as “Doctor [Last Name]” and nurses as “Nurse” or “Sister/Brother” (depending on country).
• Wait to be invited before joining rounds or speaking during clinical discussions.
• Never challenge a clinician in front of others. If you’re unsure or curious, wait and ask respectfully after the round.

Showing humility and a willingness to learn will open more doors than asserting yourself too quickly.

4. Understand the Role of Time (a.k.a. African Time)

Time perception in many African countries is more fluid. While you should always be punctual, understand that:

• Meetings and hospital rounds may start later than scheduled.
• Appointments may not follow strict timelines.
• Patience is key — and flexibility is valued.

Be early, be prepared, and bring a book or notes for times when things run behind.

5. Use Your Right Hand in Social Settings

In many East African cultures, the left hand is considered unclean (traditionally used for personal hygiene).

Use your right hand when:

• Giving or receiving items
• Greeting someone
• Eating (especially in rural or traditional settings)

This is a small but meaningful gesture that shows cultural awareness.

6. Ask Before Taking Photos

Hospitals are sensitive spaces, and cultural attitudes toward photography vary.

• Always get permission before photographing patients, staff, or hospital facilities.
• Even with consent, do not share identifiable patient images on social media.
• Focus instead on capturing moments that highlight learning, teamwork, and cultural experiences — not illness or vulnerability.

Go Elective encourages storytelling, but with ethical guidelines in place to protect dignity and confidentiality.

7. Embrace the Community Approach to Care

In African settings, care is often family-centered and communal.

• Patients may be accompanied by several family members — and that's normal.
• Family members often assist in feeding, bathing, or transporting patients.
• Respect the role of relatives as informal caregivers, and observe how cultural values of family, spirituality, and tradition shape care delivery.

This holistic approach may contrast with Western models but is central to the African healthcare experience.

8. Avoid Sensitive Topics in Public Settings

As a foreign student, it’s best to steer clear of discussing:

• Politics, corruption, or elections
• Religion or denominational differences
• Race, colonial history, or ethnic dynamics

If you’re curious, bring up questions privately with trusted mentors, not in group or clinical settings.

9. Show Gratitude and Courtesy

Saying “Asante” or simply, “thank you,” “please,” and acknowledging staff contributions are key to building trust.

• A small token of appreciation at the end of your internship (like a group thank-you card or shared snack) is always appreciated.
• When leaving a ward, thank the staff and say goodbye properly — it’s a respectful closure.
  
  

10. Learn a Few Swahili Phrases

In both Kenya and Tanzania, English is widely spoken — but learning a bit of Swahili shows initiative and helps you connect.

Useful phrases:

• Asante – Thank you
• Karibu – You’re welcome
• Pole – Sorry (used for showing sympathy)
• Nzuri sana – Very good
• Daktari – Doctor
• Wodi – Ward
• Mgonjwa – Patient

Even using just a few words in daily interactions can warm up your reception among patients and staff.

Final Thoughts: Cultural Competence is Clinical Competence

Understanding local norms isn’t just about good manners — it’s part of becoming a culturally competent healthcare provider. Your ability to adapt, respect, and engage with cultural sensitivity will determine not only how much you learn, but how you're received by local professionals and patients.

Programs like Go Elective are designed to help you succeed across clinical and cultural dimensions. From pre-departure orientation to in-country support, you’ll be guided every step of the way.

Article Details

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Travel Tips,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Jun 27, 2025