Men greeting Men –  A warm handshake with the right hand and prolonged verbal greetings like how are you, how is the family, how did you sleep etc., is common.  Hugs are common between good friends and family. Handshakes tend to linger a bit and it is common to see some men continue to hold hands throughout their conversations.  This is purely a sign of close friendship.  If greeting someone with higher status, it is customary in some groups to bow slightly so that your head is lower than theirs which is a gesture of great friendship/respect.   In other group like the Kissi, placing your left hand under your right forearm during a handshake is a sign of respect.

Women greeting Women – A warm handshake with right hand and prolonged verbal greetings like how are you, how is the family, how did you sleep etc., is common in many situations.  Hugs are common between good friends and family.  Some women exchange two kisses on the cheek as well.

Meetings between Men and Women – A warm handshake with right hand and prolonged verbal greetings like how are you, how is the family, how did you sleep etc., is common in many situations.  Note: Some men will not shake hands with a woman for religious reasons and vice-versa.  As a foreigner it is best to wait for the woman to offer her hand, if at all. When/if you can’t shake hands, clasping both of hands in front of your heart is an acceptable substitute.