10 Quirky Reasons Why South Africans Are One-of-a-Kind

When you think about it, South Africans aren't that special...
We’re just a bunch of biltong-chewing, braai-obsessed, fun-loving legends who know how to make the best of any situation — even during load shedding.

But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll realize: we’re absolutely, undeniably, one of a kind.

Here’s why:

1. We believe braais are a food group.

Rain? Braai.
Wind? Braai.
Load shedding? Definitely braai.

Nothing — and we mean nothing — stands between a South African and a braai. It’s not just a way to cook food… it’s a way of life.

2. We can hold an entire conversation using the word “shame.”

Happy shame.
Sad shame.
Disappointed shame.
Surprised shame.
Cute shame.

And somehow, we all know exactly which one you mean. Eish, shame.

3. We take sport VERY seriously.

Rugby, cricket, soccer, netball, lawn bowls — if there’s a ball involved (or even if there isn’t), we’re watching, shouting, celebrating, or heartbroken… and we love every second of it.

4. Tomato sauce goes on everything.

Chips? Yes.
Boerewors rolls? Of course.
Eggs? Definitely.
A bit more tomato sauce on top of your tomato sauce? Standard.

5. Biltong isn’t a snack — it’s a way of life.

Droewors, snapsticks, chili bites — whatever form it takes, it’s the ultimate mood-booster.
Grumpy? Have biltong.
Happy? Celebrate with biltong.
Hungry? You already know…

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6. We can braai absolutely anything.

Meat? Obvious.
Bread? A must.
Marshmallows? Standard.
Corn? 100%

Whole pineapple? Now you’re talking.

Give us fire and a grid — and we’ll figure it out.

7. We measure distance in time.

“How far is it?”
“Close-close… just 20 minutes.”
Actual distance: 47 kilometers. And it’ll take 45 minutes in Joburg traffic. But hey, it’s close.

8. We see a queue… and we join it.

There must be something good at the end, né? We’ll figure it out when we get there. Queue culture is part of our national identity.

9. We understand the true value of Mrs Ball’s Chutney.

Don’t even think about finishing the jar without replacing it.
It’s more than a condiment — it’s a sacred treasure.

10. We always find a reason to celebrate.

New job? Braai.
Lost your job? Braai.
Birthday? Braai.
Tuesday? Still braai.

Life’s too short not to light the fire and make something delicious.

🦁 Stay Lekker, Wherever You Are

Being South African isn’t just about where you were born — it’s a feeling.
It’s laughter, resilience, a little cheekiness, and a big heart. Whether you're in the heart of Durban or Cape Town or halfway across the world in Utah or South Carolina, we carry our culture with us — in our food, our sayings, and our gees.

And if you ever need a reminder of home, the Safari Sweets & Souvenirs Box is here to deliver a little piece of South Africa to your door.

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Because home isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling. And it's delicious.

Email us with any questions: Howzit@SouthAfricanSweets.com