A personal value is absolute or relative and ethical value, the assumption of which can be the basis for ethical

action. A value
system is a set of consistent values and measures. A principle value is a foundation upon which other values and measures of
integrity are based.

A tradition is a belief or behavior passed down within a group or society with symbolic meaning or special significance with
origins in the past.[1][2] Common examples include holidays or impractical but socially meaningful clothes (like lawyer wigs or
military officer spurs), but the idea has also been applied to social norms such as greetings. Traditions can persist and evolve for
thousands of yearsthe word "tradition" itself derives from the Latin tradere or traderer literally meaning to transmit, to hand
over, to give for safekeeping. While it is commonly assumed that traditions have ancient history, many traditions have been
invented on purpose, whether that be political or cultural, over short periods of time. Certain scholarly fields, such as
anthropology and biology, have adapted the term "tradition," defining it more precisely than its conventional use in order to
facilitate scholarly discourse.

African Values and Traditions

1. Greeting Hello and a Handshake
Greeting people in Africa is one of the most important things you can do. A quick hello, paired with a handshake is a sufficient
way to make a positive first impression with anyone.

2. Show Respect to Elders5545637441 a1e28248a3 o 17 African Cultural Values (To Know Before You Travel to Africa)

African cultural values are based on a foundation of the past and present, a leading reason why elders are so well respected.
Always acknowledge an elder, let them ask questions, and during mealtime elders should be served first.

3. Pointing At Things
Pointing at something or someone with the index finger is usually considered rude or just straight offensive its not something
you want to do. Different ethnic groups have different ways of pointing, but the method I usually employ is poking my chin in the
right direction and widening my eyes.

4. Overhand Motion Calling
Avoid motioning to call a person with an upwards palm. The preferred method is to call someone over with the palm faced down
and pulling the fingers inwards.

5. Sole of the Foot
Just like in many cultures around the world, the very bottom of your foot is the very dirtiest part of your body. Try not to directly
point your foot sole towards anyone.

Traditions
1. The San Bushmen (Basarwa) of the Kalahari
The San (or Basarwa) people of the Kalahari are more commonly known as the Bushmen. The San are traditionally
hunter-gatherers and live in small mobile family groups. This article gives an overview of San traditional culture as well
as present day issues. It also lists various cultural tours so visitors can experience a little hunting and gathering
themselves.

2. The Samburu of Kenya
The Samburu live in Northern Kenya, in the beautiful Rift Valley region. The Samburu are staunch traditionalists and
still lead a semi-nomadic lifestyle for the most part. Visitors to the region can enjoy staying at a community run eco-
lodge or hop on the back of a camel led by a Samburu warrior.

3. Images of Omo River Tribes, Ethiopia
Images and information about Ethiopian Tribes living in the Omo River Region, Southwestern Ethiopia. Images include
the Mursi, Hamer, Bodi, Ari, Bumi and Karo tribes of the Omo River region of Ethiopia. Each tribe has its unique
customs, language, rituals, and ceremonies.


4. Travelogue from Lake Eyasi, Tanzania
Travelogue from Lake Eyasi, Tanzania submitted to the Africa for Visitors site. Has information about the Lake Eyasi
region and the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes. Links to cultural and trekking tours in the Lake Eyasi region.

5. Survival International
International non-profit, Survival International works to promote and fight for tribal rights world wide. Excellent source
of information for anyone interested in this topic. They are very active on behalf of the San Bushmen in particular.