During the dry season, the Zayse also engage in some fishing to supplement their diets. The typical Zayse dwelling, called a tukal , is a circular hut made of acacia branches covered with grass mats. The cone-shaped roof has an opening to allow smoke to escape. Coffee and tea are both popular beverages. The Zayse family is headed by an authoritarian father who has the right to total obedience.
Men usually have only one wife, and children are considered a necessity.
The more children a Zayse man has, the greater his prestige. Attaining warrior status is an important aspect of Zayse culture. Boys are taught to use spears and begin training to become warriors at an early age. Traditionally, men ready to marry were expected to present to their brides part of a man whom they had killed. This act was part of becoming a full-fledged adult, as well as part of certain festivals.