Language/Amharic/Culture/Dämbäña-System-in-Ethiopia

Cultural note ⇨ Dämbäña System in Ethiopia

It is common in Ethiopia to have a ደምበኛ dämbäňa, or a shopkeeper to whom you go every time you need a certain item.

You trust your ደምበኛ dämbäňa to always treat you well and give you a fair price.

Often, because you are a regular customer, this price will be reduced for you.

Bargaining is not necessary with your ደምበኛ dämbäňa, and he or she will also advise you honestly about the quality of his or her items. Sometimes, your ደምበኛ dämbäña will also give you credit at his or her store.

Source

https://www.livelingua.com/peace-corps/Amharic/Amharic%20Peace%20Corps%20Language%20Manual-2015.pdf