African Hospitality
by Guest Writer Petite Ndiho
Africans are known for their hospitality the world over. But if you look carefully around you, it is obvious that hospitality is an endangered virtue – even in Africa.
Welcoming visitors is usually seen to be the woman’s forte. From what I’ve seen and heard, men can sit for hours with a visitor without really noticing that they have not eaten or showered or that they need to get some sleep. So let us perfect the art of being a good host; here are a few ways to accomplish that.
Say it heartily.
In Arabic, spoken in northern Africa, it is Mar’haba.
In Chichewa, spoken in Malawi, they say Mwalandiridwa.
In Swahili, which is spoken by more than 110 million people, it’s Karibu.
In Luganda of Uganda, it’s Tubasanyukidde.
The Igbo of Nigeria say, Ilo-la.
Whichever way you say it, do it warmly. Give the person a hug or a warm handshake, as culturally appropriate. Smile and receive them as a child of Christ.
Give them your best couch/seat.
Visitors are never parasites in Africa, especially on their first visit. Many reserve the best couches/seats for visitors. Of course, don’t offer someone else’s seat, for example for us at home we had chairs for everyone and a special one for the visitors. Treat your visitor like a dignitary. Even if you have just one stool, offer it.
Cook them a special meal.
Share what you have with them. It will be appreciated if not by them, then always by God.
Check on them and listen to them.
Ask about them. “How are you? Are you alright? Is the family well? What is the news from home?” It is rare that people will visit for no reason but even though they do, ask after them. If it is their first time in the city and they have nowhere to go, listen to their tales and smile with them as they marvel at the conveniences of city life. It could be a friend just passing by from work who didn’t think she had a problem until you asked and realized that God brought you two together for you to assist.
Offer a comfortable place to sleep.
You might not have a kingsize bed in a castle of a guest bedroom, but treat them as you would hope to be treated yourself in the same shoes. Clean sheets, a towel, bathroom flip flops and a Bible are some basics to think about.
Pray for them to have a good stay.
Believe it or not I am always homesick when visiting. It is always nice to hear my hosts are praying for me. It’s also advisable to pray that no conflict arises with your guests/s and that their stay is smooth.
These are a few starting steps. Remember it has to come from within and be genuine. People can tell when they are not welcome. If you don’t want them to be there, be frank with them, because King Solomon told us in Proverbs 10:18, “he that hideth hatred is of lying lips.” I hope this will change your mind: “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” (Hebrews 13:2)
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