What is the language and culture like in Tanzania?
Tanzanias culture is a result of African, Arab, European and Indian influences. The African people of Tanzania represent about 120 different tribal groups. The Tanzanians are friendly people to foreigners and amongst themselves. Politeness, respect and modesty are highly valued. Tanzanians usually enjoy hearing some Swahili greetings and phrases from their visitors. In Zanzibar, it is important to dress modestly out of respect for Muslim cultural beliefs. Men should not wear shorts on the main island, and women should wear pants or dresses that cover their knees and attire that covers their shoulders. Unlike Zanzibar, this does not apply on Mnemba Island. The official language in Tanzania is Swahili which is generally spoken and hundreds of other various local languages abound. English is the secondary official language and is also the countrys main teaching language for all higher education teaching and for commercial business. Arabic is widely spoken in the coastal areas, particularl
