Nairobi is cosmopolitan and relaxed, and nobody expects newcomers to know every custom. A few habits, though, go a long way.

Greetings come first

Greet before you ask. Launching straight into a question - at a shop counter, with a guard, in an office - comes across as rude. A “Habari?” or a “good morning, how are you?” first changes the whole conversation.

  • Handshakes are normal, and can be long. A light, lingering handshake is friendly, not odd.
  • Titles and respect. Older men are often called mzee and older women mama, as a mark of respect.

See Swahili for daily life for the words.

Time

Social events often start later than the invitation says, and “I’m coming” can mean anything from now to an hour. Business meetings and interviews are more punctual - be on time for those, and allow for traffic.

Dress

Nairobi dresses smartly, especially for work, church and government offices. Casual is fine in malls and at weekends. Dress more modestly on the coast and in Muslim areas such as Eastleigh.

Photographs

Ask before photographing people, and accept a no. Do not photograph government buildings, police, military sites or State House.

Religion

Most Kenyans are Christian, with a large Muslim minority and Hindu and other communities. Religion is part of public life: meetings may open with a prayer, and Sunday mornings are for church.

Money and favours

  • Bargaining is expected in markets, not in shops with printed prices. See Shopping.
  • Tipping is appreciated but modest. See Food and eating out.
  • Bribes. If someone asks for kitu kidogo, ask for the official receipt or the proper process instead.

Things that surprise newcomers

  • Plastic bags are banned. Kenya banned single-use plastic carrier bags in 2017, with heavy penalties. Bring a reusable bag when you shop.
  • Smoking in public is banned in most public places.
  • Littering can bring a fine from county officers.
  • Being called mzungu - it is usually descriptive, not hostile.

Conversation

Kenyans are warm and curious, and talk about family, work, football and politics easily. Ethnicity is a sensitive subject, especially around elections; follow the other person’s lead.

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