Current Time in Obo
Culture of time in the Central African Republic
Culture of time in the Central African Republic
"African time" is deeply rooted
In the Central African Republic, the idea that "being a little late is normal" is widely accepted, and being 15 to 30 minutes late from an agreed time is often not considered a problem.
Flexible schedule management
Events and gatherings generally do not start on time, and the start time is considered a guideline because they begin when a certain number of participants have gathered.
Lifestyle rhythm based on daylight hours
Many people start their activities early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day. People tend to take it easy in the afternoon.
Values regarding time in the Central African Republic
A sense of time that prioritizes relationships with others
There is a culture in which the quality of interactions and conversations with people is more important than punctuality, and trust with others is more important than being slightly late.
Flexibility in time is widespread in society
Flexible responses to the situation and flow of the moment are more likely to be valued than fixed schedules, and improvisational adjustment skills are required.
There are times when not rushing is considered a virtue
There are times when it is considered wise to act calmly and spend time thoughtfully rather than being busy and pressed for time.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to the Central African Republic
It is safe to think of the appointment time as a "guideline"
For business meetings, a tentative start time is set, but the actual start is often delayed, so it is necessary to be patient.
It is common for times to go back and forth due to traffic and power outages
Due to worsening road conditions and limited infrastructure, it is often difficult to travel on time, so it is necessary to have a flexible schedule.
Public services may not always be on time
There are cases where waiting times are long even at government offices and medical facilities, and even if you have plans in advance, it is best to act with the assumption that they will change.
Interesting trivia about time in the Central African Republic
Weddings are expected to start late
In the Central African Republic, even big events such as weddings rarely start at the time written on the invitation, and it is rather normal for them to be 2 to 3 hours late.
The here and now is more important than time
There is a strong tendency to place importance on events in the moment and connections with people rather than watching the clock, and the attitude of "concentrating on the present moment" is deeply rooted in the culture.