Public criticism, insulting elders, and openly discussing sensitive ethnic, political, or religious issues are best avoided, because Sierra Leonean social life places a high value on respect, restraint, and keeping harmony in the group. It is also taboo to touch someone’s head, use the left hand for giving or receiving items, or handle food carelessly, and in some communities strong beliefs around
witchcraft and the dead mean you should speak about
funerals and spirits with extra caution.