The White-bellied Go-away-bird utters varied calls, among them the usual loud, nasal “haa haa haa” or “gwaa”. These calls are repeated several times, and often given as series by two birds engaged in duets. Other calls are almost saying “go-wayeer”, giving the species its name.
It frequents hot acacia steppe and savanna, and also wooded areas. It prefers to remain within the deep forest, but the species is visible from sea-level up to 1700/2000 metres of elevation. The White-bellied Go-away-bird feeds primarily on plant matter such as fruits, flowers and nectar, seeds and buds of acacias and other plant species. It also favours the green pods of Acacia tortilis. It may probe nectar from flowers and takes some invertebrates such as winged termites.
It is very agile when climbing in trees. It may run over large branches too. However, it regularly descends to the ground for drinking and sometimes for bathing as part of plumage maintenance. This species can be seen alone, in pairs or in small family groups.