In Eritrea, an intriguing tradition concerning public transport behaviors has been circulated among locals and travelers alike. According to local lore, whistling aboard buses and taxis is strongly discouraged—and in some accounts, outright forbidden. This custom is said to have originated from superstitions associating whistling with bad luck or disruptions to the driver’s concentration. Passengers are encouraged to maintain quiet or engage in soft conversation to ensure a calm and safe journey. While there appears to be no formal written law enforcing this rule, many Eritreans observe it as a mark of respect and community awareness in crowded or busy public transportation settings. The practice highlights the value placed on collective well-being and attentiveness in Eritrean society, blending cultural beliefs with everyday actions. Visitors may find this rule unexpected but are advised to appreciate it as part of the local transport etiquette. Verification of an official legal basis for this rule remains elusive, so it is best regarded as a respectful cultural custom rather than a statutory mandate.
Source / verification note
Reported through multiple travel anecdotes and local interviews; no formal legal text found.