Current Time in Bafatá
Culture of time in Guinea-Bissau
Culture of time in Guinea-Bissau
Appointment time is a guideline
In Guinea-Bissau, people are generally not strict about appointment times. Delays of 10 to 30 minutes are often tolerated, and people tend to value relationships with others rather than time.
Life in tune with the rhythm of nature
Except in urban areas, many people start their activities with the sunrise and return home at sunset. In areas where electricity is not stable, the length of daylight has a major impact on behavior.
Events "start slowly and end slowly"
Events such as weddings and religious ceremonies usually start later than scheduled, and the end time is also unclear. There is a deep-rooted culture that values atmosphere and flow rather than time.
Values of time in Guinea-Bissau
Value relationships over time
In Guinea-Bissau, people tend to respect trust with others and the atmosphere of the place rather than strictly adhering to time. Even if you are late, a polite greeting and a smile are elements that build trust.
Flexibility is valued
Even if plans change or delays occur, there is a culture where flexible responses according to the situation and circumstances are valued. A soft attitude and ability to respond are more important than being on time.
Peace of mind over efficiency
Many people value "being here now" more than time efficiency, and do not like to be rushed. Peace of mind and a sense of security are valued more than proceeding according to schedule.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Guinea-Bissau
Plan your time schedule with plenty of time
Transportation such as buses and ferries may not run on schedule. It is recommended to not pack your schedule too much and to allow for plenty of time.
Understand promises as a guideline
Promises with locals are strongly based on the idea of "around a certain time," so you need to be tolerant of deviations from plans. Be careful not to press or insist, as this can be rude.
Public institutions close early
Many government offices and banks close in the evening, so it is best to complete formalities in the morning. They can be particularly crowded on Friday afternoons and before holidays.
Interesting trivia about time in Guinea-Bissau
The embodiment of the term "African time"
The concept of "African time" is naturally prevalent in Guinea-Bissau, and they maintain their own unique sense of time, with the sense that "time flows" and "people are the main characters."
Use the movement of the sun as a clock
Many homes in rural areas do not have clocks, and some people use the position of the sun and the sounds of animals as a guide to determine the time they spend in their daily lives.
Radio program times are just a guideline
Radio has become an ingrained part of our lives, but it is not uncommon for program start times to be off by a few minutes to even a dozen minutes, and viewers accept this as normal.