First impressions are really important to people from Sudan. They expect you to shake hands and be warm and friendly, and it might seem like they stand a lot closer than Americans On the other hand, they also like to keep some distance, especially if you are talking to a person of the opposite gender. Sudanese don’t keep constant eye contact; they often look down as a sign of respect when they are talking to someone who is older. Friends will hug when they see each other, and sometimes they touch each other on the shoulder when they are talking.
Respect for elders is very important, but due to war and poor health care only about 2% of the Sudanese population is over 65. If we meet an older person, we usually kiss their hands or their forehead to show respect. If we see an older person who is trying to carry something heavy, we help them even if we don't know them.
Men usually have more power than women. Most women have 5 or 6 children. Women can work outside the home and drive a car. In general, boys have a lot more freedom than girls do.
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Age structure:
0-14 years: 41.6%
15-64 years: 56%
65 years and over: 2.4%