Men greeting Men – A warm handshake with the right hand is common in most situations. Handshakes may linger and men often hold hands throughout the conversation.  It has nothing to do with sexual orientation, just a sign of friendship. Sometimes a side to side hug (European style) is given; accompanied by light taps on the cheek. 

Women greeting Women- A warm handshake with the right hand is common in most situations. Handshakes may linger and men often hold hands throughout the conversation.  It has nothing to do with sexual orientation, just a sign of friendship. Sometimes a side to side hug (European style) is given; accompanied by light taps on the cheek.

Greetings between Men & Women- Men and women do not usually express affection openly.  There is little to no physical contact after an initial handshake and many cases women and men will greet one another by standing at a distance and clasping their own hands in front of their chests.

Note: The type of handshake varies from region to region.  In the Eastern Province you shake with your right hand and place your left had at your right elbow; to show respect.  Throughout there is a very common up-down-up motion made when shaking hands; which is always done with the right hand, as the left hand is viewed as unclean. In Northwestern Zambia there is a very intricate series of claps and shakes.  If you ask a Zambian politely, they will most likely be very happy to show their regional shake. Greetings are VERY important. In addition to basic, "Hello and how are you?” it is common to ask how one slept, how their day is going, their health, etc.