Current Time in SanPédro
Culture of time in Côte d'Ivoire
Culture of time in Côte d'Ivoire
Flexible sense of time
In Côte d'Ivoire, people tend to value being flexible in their relationships and situations, rather than being punctual. It is common for meetings and events to start late.
Social time is valued
In everyday life, the culture values dialogue and exchange more than things going on time. Sometimes, small talk before and after a meeting is more important than a meeting.
Markets and transportation are also based on time
Opening times for local buses and markets are understood as "guidelines," and schedules are often made on the assumption that they will be delayed.
Values of time in Côte d'Ivoire
Connections with people take priority over time
People tend to value relationships with people and the atmosphere of the place more than punctuality, and there are many situations in which conversations with people are prioritized over keeping to an appointment.
A culture of slowness is deeply rooted
There is little awareness of "I have to do it right now," and a sense of time that "I'll do it eventually" and "Whatever will be, will be" is widespread throughout society.
Daily time allocation is influenced by seasons and religious events
In particular, Islamic events and the fasting month (Ramadan) have a strong influence on daily rhythms, so life and work hours change significantly during those periods.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Côte d'Ivoire
It is basic to leave ample time for appointments
When meeting with local people, being a few tens of minutes late is not considered a problem. It is important to be patient and respond with an open mind.
Punctuality may be required in business
In formal settings such as international companies and government offices, being punctual is a sign of trustworthiness, so it is necessary to respond according to the time, place, and occasion.
Government offices have relatively stable opening hours
Government offices and banks often close at the appointed time, so it is important to arrive early for official procedures.
Interesting trivia about time in Côte d'Ivoire
There is a term "African time"
In West Africa, including Côte d'Ivoire, people who are not punctual are sometimes called "African time" self-deprecatingly, which is an expression that symbolizes the difference in their sense of time.
Life rhythms that start with sunrise
In many areas, except for urban areas, life progresses according to the movement of the sun rather than the clock. In rural areas in particular, activities start at sunrise and the day ends with sunset.
Music events do not believe in the scheduled start time
Concerts, festivals, and other events usually start 1-2 hours later than the scheduled time, and the audience acts in anticipation of this.