Customs
Dances
A very popular traditional dance in Zimbabwe is performed by Makishi dancers. These dancers appear at many tribal ceremonies, their faces and bodies are hidden by masks and paint. The Makishi are said to be spirits that represent ancient ancestors.
Men and Women
Women are typically expected to take care of the home and to raise the children to become good citizens. In more rural areas, women may also take care of growing plants and harvesting. Men are expected to go work and make money for the family. In some cases, a man may have two or three wives at a time.
Greeting
Greeting customs in Zimbabwe are similar to those in the U.S. When meeting someone new, it is polite to greet them with a handshake and hugging is common among friends and family.
Other
Conversation topics that Americans may consider to be inappropriate (asking someone's income, sexual orientation, etc.) are socially acceptable and common in Zimbabwe. Politics, however, should be avoided. It is disrespectful for a man to put his arm around or even touch a married woman. Drugs are illegal and the legal drinking age is 18.
