For those traveling to Tanzania, whether for a short stay or a business trip, here are some tips on building healthy relationships with Tanzanians. While many of these points may apply to other countries as well, the sense of time in Tanzania is likely to be significantly different from what you’re used to. Additionally, Tanzanians tend to avoid stress and prioritize peace of mind. Keeping these two key aspects in mind will help you navigate social interactions more smoothly. I hope you find this helpful!

Greeting in Swahili

In Tanzania, greetings are an essential part of the culture. Simple Swahili greetings like “Mambo!” (Hello) or “Habari?” (How are you?) show respect and help create a positive first impression. Locals will appreciate and feel grateful when they see that you respect their culture.

Greetings are more than just an exchange of words—they are a fundamental process for building relationships. For example, shaking hands while responding with “Nzuri” (I’m good) or saying “Nafurahi kukuona” (I’m happy to see you) can make conversations more engaging and meaningful.

On a side note, there have been foreign managers who intentionally avoided using Swahili. It’s likely that they did so to maintain authority and instill discipline and work ethics among their staff. One such manager was an Indian-born hotel general manager, running one of the most popular hotels in town. This approach may feel less casual compared to how Tanzanians typically interact. However, his work was outstanding, and guest satisfaction remained high.

For short-term travelers, a casual and friendly approach is perfectly fine. However, when working in Tanzania, it’s important to find the right balance between professionalism and cultural connection.

Dressing Stylishly

People in Tanzania place great importance on appearance. Even as a traveler, dressing well can earn you respect from the locals.

For men, accessories like hats and sunglasses can be great additions to your outfit. For women, bright colors, bold summer dresses, and skirts are often well-received. If you have long hair, you may also attract admiration. Additionally, younger generations in Tanzania are influenced by American culture, so hip-hop fashion is often seen as stylish and appealing.

At local markets and shops, you can find traditional fabrics like Kanga and Kitenge. Consider having a tailor custom-make an outfit for you—just keep in mind that it may take a few days, so it’s best to order before heading on a safari. Wearing locally inspired clothing not only delights the people around you but also serves as a unique souvenir from your journey.

Complimenting Someone’s Style

Tanzanians take great pride in their fashion and appearance. Traditional clothing and accessories, in particular, are a reflection of identity and cultural heritage. Complimenting someone’s outfit is an excellent way to build rapport and strengthen your connection with them.

When you notice someone dressed stylishly or wearing something you like, try saying, “Umependa!” (You look great!) or “Umependa sana!” (You look amazing!). In response, you’ll likely receive a warm smile and a cheerful “Asante” (Thank you).

Complimenting someone is more than just a way to make a good impression. Often, it opens the door to meaningful conversations. Instead of simply thanking you, they may share the story behind their outfit—whether it was chosen for a special event or carries family traditions. Through these exchanges, you gain deeper insight into their culture and values.

Avoiding Criticism and Blame

Tanzania is home to 130 different ethnic groups, and its population is nearly evenly split between Christians and Muslims. Despite these diverse identities, Tanzania remains one of the more peaceful countries in Africa. A key reason for this is the national preference for harmony and a relaxed atmosphere.

Because of this, it’s best to avoid negative comments or confrontational behavior. Instead of criticizing, try using a suggestion-based approach. For example, saying “I think this could be even better if…” is more effective than direct criticism. This allows for open discussion without putting the other person on the defensive, fostering smoother and more constructive communication.

Humor and positivity

Tanzanians value a calm, relaxed approach to life and prioritize inner peace. To connect with them, share lighthearted stories and positive conversations to create a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Humor is also an effective way to engage. Tanzanians appreciate smiles and cheerful interactions, so they enjoy lively and uplifting exchanges. Simple jokes or lighthearted remarks can help maintain a relaxed and enjoyable conversation, making interactions more natural and pleasant.

Being Honest and Authentic

Tanzanians are known for their straightforward and genuine nature. Spending time with them often makes you feel more comfortable being yourself, as they readily accept people for who they are.

While cheerful and energetic personalities are easily welcomed, Tanzania is also home to many calm, reserved, or serious individuals. If that’s your natural disposition, there’s no need to force yourself to be outgoing. Tanzanians may not always anticipate your needs or adjust their behavior to accommodate you, but at the same time, you don’t have to worry too much about reading their emotions or overthinking your interactions. Just be yourself, and you’ll naturally find your place in conversations and relationships.

Don’t Get Upset If Someone Arrives Late

In Tanzania, time is viewed flexibly. The phrase “polepole” (slowly, take it easy) is commonly used in daily conversations, reflecting the deeply ingrained cultural value of not rushing. As a result, if someone is not working in the tourism industry, it’s not unusual for them to break appointments or arrive more than an hour late. Getting upset in such situations can actually make things more difficult.

The key is to accept delays and schedule changes as normal. Tanzanians tend to prioritize the flow of events and their personal feelings over strict punctuality. If the delay is within reason, welcome the person warmly with a positive remark like, “I waited a long time, but I’m happy to see you!”. If you can add a touch of playful sarcasm, you’ve truly embraced the local way of handling such situations.

That said, for travelers on a tight schedule, excessive waiting can feel frustrating. In such cases, instead of expressing anger, try explaining your situation: “I’d really appreciate it if we could move faster because…”. Tanzanians are generally understanding and will make an effort to adjust if they see a valid reason.

Even subjective reasons like “I really want to see this place,” “I’m hungry,” or “My child is asleep” can be effective. In fact, personal reasons often generate more empathy and understanding than logical arguments.

Before feeling frustrated that someone isn’t considering your perspective, try clearly communicating your needs. If things still don’t improve, consider escalating the issue by speaking with a manager at a hotel or a representative from a local tour company.

Say What You Need to Say “Immediately”

In Tanzania, gentle communication is highly valued. No matter the situation, it’s important to express your thoughts and feelings calmly.

For example, if someone’s behavior concerns you or a problem arises, it’s best to avoid accusatory language like, “Why did you do that?” Instead, try a more suggestive approach, such as, “I think it might go more smoothly if we do it this way.” Tanzanian culture tends to avoid emotional confrontations, so people appreciate calm and constructive words.

Timing is also crucial when addressing issues. If you point something out later, the person might have already forgotten the situation. More importantly, holding back your concerns and bringing them back to Japan later serves no purpose. If you have any complaints or suggestions for improvement, make sure to express them kindly on the spot.

For instance, if you’d like your guide to be quieter, saying something like, “I’m feeling a bit tired and would like to rest quietly,” will prompt them to lower their voice. In fact, some guides may even apologize for not noticing sooner.

Being able to express your opinions while keeping your emotions in check is vital for building trust. By communicating honestly while respecting the other person, you’ll be able to foster stronger relationships with the people of Tanzania.

One of the most popular lodges in the Serengeti, Sound of Silence, where the staff welcomed us with vibrant energy and bright smiles.

Remind Gently and Frequently

In Tanzania, the “polepole” (take it slow, relax) lifestyle is deeply ingrained in the culture. As a result, tasks and promises may not always be carried out immediately. This is often due to different priorities rather than intentional delay. Understanding this cultural backdrop, reminding someone repeatedly is key to smooth communication.

For instance, if you’ve made a special request to hotel staff, it’s not uncommon for it not to be fulfilled after just one reminder. In such cases, remain calm and ask again politely. A simple, lighthearted inquiry like “I asked about this earlier—has there been any update?” will likely prompt a positive response without causing any tension.

Additionally, expressing gratitude can make a big difference. Saying something like “Sorry to remind you again, but I really appreciate your help” or “Thank you, I really appreciate it!” will leave a good impression and motivate the other person to help you more willingly.

Maintain a Confident and Assertive Attitude

While Tanzanians are generally friendly and easygoing, there can be situations, especially with travelers or foreigners, where people may test your boundaries or gauge your reactions. In such cases, it’s important to maintain respectful and honest interactions while also presenting yourself confidently, to ensure that you are not easily taken advantage of.

For example, if you’re approached by someone trying to sell souvenirs in the street or at a tourist site, it’s important to clearly communicate your preferences. If you’re not interested, don’t hesitate to say “No, thank you” firmly. Avoid aggressive bargaining and aim for fair and respectful exchanges.

If you feel uncomfortable with someone’s behavior, it’s crucial to express your opinion immediately. In such moments, avoid showing any weakness or hesitation. A decisive attitude combined with a positive demeanor will act as your shield and help protect you from any unwanted situations.

Don’t Blame Yourself or Others for Betrayal, Deception, or Discrimination

In Tanzania, as in any place, unexpected events can arise. Due to the economic disparity between tourists and local people, there may be situations where problems occur, sometimes due to a momentary lapse in judgment. However, it’s not productive to dwell on the causes of these issues.

Just as you can’t control when it rains, unpredictable events are a reality. Rather than taking them as a personal attack, it’s wiser to stay calm and handle the situation gracefully. By not blaming yourself or others, and quickly letting things pass, you can protect yourself in the long run. What’s done is done—such events are inevitable parts of life.

Even if someone is clearly lying or refusing to admit their mistake, avoiding the urge to argue or insist on being “right” is often better. While the situation may vary, it’s important to remember that as a foreigner, you are in a legally weaker position, and it’s crucial to respect the local context. Understand the economic background and living conditions of those around you, and maintain an even-tempered approach. This will contribute to a healthy stay in Tanzania and help you navigate challenges more effectively.