Sudan Local Custom Tips by kucha

Cover-Up, Despite the Heat

For western women in the Sudan, it is extremely important that they dress properly. This includes no halter tops and no shorts in public areas. These are offensive to the Sudanese and can result in insult to the western woman who is foolish enough to flaunt the Sudanese moral and religious customs. Also a teenage girl should be careful in her dress outside the home.

I can say that I never felt so uncomfortable as when I sat for hours in a hijcked bus as the only Western woman and in short sleeves, no less.

Soles of Your Shoes

It is quite rude for a guest, particularly for a western man, to point the soles of his feet at an Arab; also when one beckons, one does not do so in the American fashion by crooking one’s finger at a guest. This is considered grossly disrespectful. Instead, one extends one’s hand, palm downwards, and motions towards oneself.

Always Offer a Drink

Whenever a Sudanese caller is present, either on business or for social reasons, a drink is always offered as well as some form of refreshment such as potato chips, small pieces of candy, or other small refreshments. One does not ask the Sudanese visitor if he wants such a thing, one simply offers it. When a westerner visits a Sudanese home, he will also be presented with small cakes, a drink, or other refreshments.

Greetings

The Sudanese have a very formal way of greeting. They will expect the foreigner to respond in similar fashion. The host generally inquires about the visitor, his family, his health and his general well being. After this the Sudanese host will begin to discuss business, if the meeting is to be business one. It is not considered impolite for a newly arrived friend or business associate to interrupt an on-going conversation, complete his business and depart. Conversation then picks up where it left off.

Sudanese Food: AN Overview

Although much maligned, once I got over the nervousness, the food was really pretty good in Sudan. Sudanese food is simple and Turkish or Lebanese in character. The staple diet is Fassoulia, a dish somewhat akin to baked beans that is served with bread and dura. The main breads are kisera, a thin unleavened maize pancake, and gurassa. Meat dishes include chicken, lamb kebabs and lahma, kalawi and gammonia, which isstewed sheep's stomach,in case you have food issues :)

Nile Perch is a speciality in Kharthoum as are mangoes, dates, figs and bananas. For dessert try a Hoshab, a cold chopped mix of such fruits. The Sudanese also take a variety of sugared teas spiced with cloves, mint or cinnamon.

Back-street stands sell Arugi, made from dates and tasting like rum. You can try Tedj (a date and honey wine), or Merissa (a sorghum beer).

No Cameras in Government-Run Locales

Cameras are a very bad idea, as is eating with your left hand when visiting and dining with village elders in the Islamic north.