Ruth Benedict, an American anthropologist, once said, ‘The crucial differences which distinguish human societies and human beings are not biological. They are cultural.’ This means that there are many differences around the world that are not determined biologically. These differences show up in languages, cultural practices, customs, and beliefs. Thus, this shows the importance of effective intercultural communication. To communicate effectively across cultures, it is important to understand their language, beliefs, social norms, habits, and ways of thinking.

During a Communication Skills lesson at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS), two international students, Omowunmi Fadipe from Nigeria and Charlotte Perrier from France, shared their perspectives on some of the key cultural differences between Kenya and their home countries. The discussion explored social etiquette, communication styles and everyday interactions in Kenya, while highlighting how cultural differences influence the way people communicate and relate to one another. The session also emphasised the importance of challenging cultural stereotypes and approaching different cultures with openness and understanding.

According to Perrier, adjusting to the rhythms of everyday life in Kenya has revealed striking differences between Kenyan and French cultures, turning even ordinary interactions into opportunities for cultural learning.

One of the most noticeable differences, she observed, is the approach to time. In Kenya, punctuality can be treated more flexibly, with social interactions sometimes allowing greater leeway around agreed times. This contrasts with France, where punctuality and adherence to scheduled times tend to be more firmly observed.

Communication styles also differ. Perrier noted that Kenyans may communicate more indirectly, particularly in situations where maintaining social harmony and avoiding confrontation are important. In contrast, French communication tends to be more direct and explicit. For her, navigating these differences has highlighted how deeply culture shapes not only what people say, but also how they say it and how their words are interpreted.

Fadipe similarly reflected on the cultural adjustments she has had to make while living in Kenya, particularly around greetings, respect and social interactions.

In Nigeria, she explained, greetings can carry a strong sense of hierarchy and are an important expression of respect, particularly when addressing elders. These traditions vary across the country’s diverse cultures and languages, including Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo, alongside English, the country’s official language. In some contexts, she noted, a casual “hi” may be considered inappropriate or disrespectful, especially when addressing an older person or someone in a position of authority. More formal greetings and respectful forms of address are therefore an important part of everyday interaction.

The discussion also highlighted a more serious consequence of ineffective intercultural communication: the creation and reinforcement of harmful stereotypes. Fadipe pointed to portrayals of Nigerians as excessively loud or dramatic, as well as damaging associations with witchcraft or financial crime. Such generalisations, she argued, reduce a culturally diverse population to simplistic caricatures and fail to reflect the realities of Nigerian society.

Even language can become distorted when removed from its cultural context. Fadipe used the popular Nigerian term “Oga” as an example. While it is sometimes presented in popular culture as generic Nigerian slang, she explained that the term traditionally refers to a boss, superior or person of authority. Understanding such nuances, she noted, is an important part of moving beyond stereotypes towards more meaningful intercultural understanding.

Through Perrier’s reflections on time and communication, and Fadipe’s insights on greetings, respect and stereotypes, both presentations showed that seemingly ordinary interactions can carry very different meanings across cultures. Their experiences adjusting to life in Kenya demonstrate why intercultural competence matters. Understanding these differences can help prevent misunderstandings, challenge stereotypes and encourage greater appreciation of other ways of life. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the ability to listen, adapt and communicate across cultural boundaries will remain essential to building meaningful relationships and successful collaborations.