Gambia Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Gambia, State of West Africa; 11,300 km², 2.3 million residents (2019).The Gambia is located along the Gambia River. The country is surrounded by Senegal, except in the west, where the Gambia meets the Atlantic. The capital is Banjul (31,300 residents, 2014).

Country facts

Republic of the Gambia / Republic of Gambia
Country abbreviation: GM
Area: 11 300 km²
Population (2019): 2.3 million residents
Capital: Banjul
Main languages: English, Malinke
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Adama Barrow (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 712
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 700
Currency unit: 1 dalasi = 100 bututs
Currency code: GMD
Country number (telephony): 220
Internet domain name: gm
Time difference compared to Sweden: −1
National Day: February 18 (Independence Day, 1965)

Nature

Land use: agricultural land (20%), other (80%)
Longest river: Gambia (1,300 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 204 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 3.1%; birthrate 39 ‰, deathrate 8 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (44%), 15-64 (53%), 65- (3%)
Average life expectancy (2019): 65 years; men 60 years, women 63 years
Infant mortality (2019): 45 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 5 million residents
Population change in 2017–50: 150%
HDI (2017): 0.460 (place 174 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 61%
Most populous cities (2014): Kanifeng (382 100 residents), Brikama 95 000)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (20%), industry (14%), service (66%)
Export (2017): US $ 73 million
Main export products: peanuts, cotton, fish
Main exporting countries: Guinea-Bissau, Vietnam, Senegal
Imports (2017): US $ 377 million
Main import products: food, machinery, fuel
Main importing countries: Ivory Coast, Brazil, Spain
Railway network: nothing works

Geography of Gambia

Location and Borders

The Gambia is a small country located in West Africa, bordered by Senegal on three sides—north, east, and south—and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It is the smallest country on the African mainland, with a narrow strip of land that stretches along the Gambia River, a vital waterway that flows from the east to the Atlantic. The country’s geographical shape, resembling a long and winding river valley, has given it a unique structure, with its width rarely exceeding 50 kilometers (31 miles) and extending 300 kilometers (186 miles) along the river.

This river, along with the fertile land along its banks, has historically been the backbone of the country’s development, both for transportation and trade. The Gambia’s proximity to Senegal has made it an important cultural and economic link between the two countries.

Terrain and Landscape

Gambia’s landscape is dominated by the Gambia River, which is flanked by plains, lowlands, and some forested areas. The country lacks large mountain ranges, with the highest point being only 53 meters (174 feet) above sea level, a part of the undulating terrain that rises gently towards the east. Most of the country consists of flat terrain, particularly along the river and in the coastal regions, which are prone to flooding during the rainy season. To the south and east of the river, the landscape becomes more savannah-like, with grassy plains dotted with sparse trees.

The coastal area is characterized by wetlands, including mangrove swamps, which provide vital ecosystems for local wildlife and support the country’s fishing industry. The central and eastern regions of the Gambia are more arid and are influenced by the Sahel climate, making them more vulnerable to droughts.

Natural Resources

Gambia’s natural resources are relatively limited compared to many other African countries, but the land is fertile enough for agricultural production, particularly in the region around the Gambia River. The country has important agricultural products such as peanuts, rice, millet, and maize. Additionally, fish and shellfish from the Atlantic Ocean, along with salt, are important resources that support the economy.

The Gambia also has a small but growing tourism industry, with its beaches and natural reserves becoming more prominent in recent years. Despite these resources, the Gambia’s reliance on agriculture and tourism makes its economy susceptible to external shocks, such as climate change or global economic downturns.

Climate of Gambia

General Climate Zones

The Gambia experiences a tropical climate, influenced by the presence of the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Sahara Desert to the north. The country is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season, which lasts from June to October, brings substantial rainfall, often in the form of intense but short storms. This period is critical for agriculture, particularly for the cultivation of rice and other crops that require consistent water sources.

The dry season, from November to May, is characterized by lower humidity and much less rainfall, leading to hot and dry conditions. During this time, the Harmattan winds, which blow from the Sahara Desert, bring dry, dusty air to the region. These winds can cause health problems and reduced visibility, especially in the early months of the dry season.

Temperature and Weather Patterns

The Gambia generally enjoys high temperatures year-round, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), even during the rainy season. The humidity during the rainy season can make the heat feel more intense, particularly in the coastal areas. During the dry season, temperatures can rise even higher, with the interior regions sometimes reaching 40°C (104°F).

The rainy season typically peaks in August, with the southern regions of the country receiving more rainfall than the northern parts. In contrast, the dry season sees reduced rainfall, with coastal regions being slightly milder compared to the inland areas, which experience greater temperature extremes.

Environmental Issues

The Gambia faces several environmental challenges, most notably the effects of climate change. The country’s dependence on agriculture for its economy makes it particularly vulnerable to changing rainfall patterns, droughts, and floods. Coastal erosion is also a growing concern due to rising sea levels, which threatens the livelihoods of communities along the coast. Deforestation and the loss of biodiversity are also critical issues, as land is cleared for agriculture and development.

People of Gambia

Ethnic Composition

The Gambia is ethnically diverse, with several different ethnic groups coexisting within the country. The largest ethnic group is the Mandinka, making up about 42% of the population. Other significant ethnic groups include the Wolof, Fula (Fulani), Jola, Serahule, and Manjago. Each ethnic group has its own language, customs, and traditions, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the country.

While many Gambians belong to one of the country’s indigenous ethnic groups, the Gambia also has smaller communities of people of European, Lebanese, and Indian descent, particularly in urban areas such as the capital, Banjul. The country’s diversity is reflected in its languages, music, food, and festivals.

Language and Religion

English is the official language of the Gambia, a legacy of the country’s colonial history under British rule. However, the majority of the population speaks local languages, with the most widely spoken being Mandinka, Wolof, and Fula. These languages serve as a means of communication within various ethnic communities, and many Gambians are multilingual, speaking both their ethnic language and English.

Islam is the dominant religion in the Gambia, with about 95% of the population identifying as Muslim. The majority of Muslims in the country follow Sunni Islam, with a significant number adhering to the Sufi tradition, which plays a central role in Gambia’s religious life. Christianity is practiced by a small percentage of the population, primarily among ethnic groups such as the Manjago and Serahule. Religious tolerance is a key characteristic of Gambian society, with different faiths coexisting peacefully.

Demographics

As of 2023, the Gambia has an estimated population of about 2.5 million people. The country has a relatively young population, with a median age of about 18 years, which indicates a high birth rate and a growing demand for education, healthcare, and employment. The population is also highly concentrated in urban areas, particularly in the capital city of Banjul and its surrounding region, known as the Greater Banjul Area.

The rural population of Gambia is primarily involved in agriculture, with a high percentage living in villages along the river. Over the past few decades, Gambia has experienced significant population growth, though the country faces challenges related to high levels of poverty, unemployment, and limited access to healthcare and education, especially in rural areas.

Economy of Gambia

Agriculture

Agriculture forms the backbone of Gambia’s economy, employing a large portion of the population. The country’s fertile land, particularly along the Gambia River, allows for the cultivation of rice, maize, millet, and peanuts. Peanuts (groundnuts) are one of the country’s main exports and have been a staple of the Gambia’s economy for many years.

Rice is another important crop, as it serves as a dietary staple for many Gambians. The country also grows fruits such as papayas, bananas, and mangoes. While agriculture remains the primary source of livelihood for many, the sector faces several challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, poor irrigation systems, and susceptibility to climate change.

Industry and Services

The industrial sector of the Gambia is small but growing. It is primarily focused on food processing, particularly in the production of peanuts and cotton, as well as small-scale manufacturing. Tourism, however, has become an increasingly important industry for the Gambia, with the country’s scenic coastline, beaches, and wildlife drawing tourists from around the world. The tourism sector has contributed to the growth of service industries such as hospitality, transport, and retail, making it an essential part of the economy.

The government has also focused on developing the financial services sector and increasing foreign direct investment to diversify the economy. However, the country’s small industrial base and heavy dependence on imports leave it vulnerable to fluctuations in global markets.

Challenges and Development

Despite progress in certain sectors, the Gambia faces numerous economic challenges. Poverty remains widespread, with a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line. High unemployment, particularly among young people, is another critical issue. The country has also struggled with a lack of infrastructure, especially in rural areas, where access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and clean water is limited.

The Gambia’s government has been working on improving the economy through various initiatives, including enhancing agricultural productivity, increasing investment in tourism, and improving infrastructure. However, the country’s small size and reliance on external financial aid and remittances make it difficult to achieve sustainable economic growth.

Government of Gambia

Political Structure

The Gambia operates as a presidential republic, with a political system that is centered around a strong executive. The president serves as both the head of state and the head of government, holding significant powers, including the ability to appoint ministers, dissolve the National Assembly, and command the military.

The legislature consists of a unicameral parliament known as the National Assembly, which is made up of elected representatives from various constituencies across the country. The National Assembly is responsible for enacting laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the executive branch. The judiciary, which is independent of the executive, interprets and applies laws in the country, although it has at times been subject to political pressures.

Recent Political Developments

Gambia has undergone significant political changes in recent years. In 2017, the country witnessed a historic political transition when long-time president Yahya Jammeh was defeated in the elections and subsequently fled the country after refusing to step down. The country’s peaceful transition to a new government under President Adama Barrow was seen as a major step forward for democracy in the Gambia.

Since taking office, President Barrow has focused on stabilizing the country politically, improving human rights, and instituting reforms in governance. His government has worked to address issues such as corruption, political repression, and judicial independence, all of which were prominent under Jammeh’s rule. However, the country faces ongoing challenges related to political polarization, limited resources, and the need for more inclusive governance.

Culture of Gambia

Traditional Music and Dance

Gambian culture is deeply rooted in music, dance, and storytelling. Music plays an important role in social and religious life, with traditional instruments such as the balafon (a type of wooden xylophone), the kora (a stringed instrument), and the djembe drum forming the backbone of Gambian music. Music is often used to convey stories, history, and emotions, and it plays an important role during ceremonies, celebrations, and festivals.

Dance is another integral part of Gambian culture, with various ethnic groups having their unique dances and styles. Traditional dances are performed during celebrations, including weddings, harvest festivals, and religious events.

Cuisine

The cuisine of the Gambia is diverse and influenced by the country’s ethnic and cultural diversity. The staple food is rice, which is often served with a variety of stews made from fish, chicken, or vegetables. Groundnut stew is another common dish, as peanuts are widely grown in the country. Fish, particularly from the Gambia River and the Atlantic Ocean, is also a key component of Gambian cuisine.

Tropical fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, and oranges, are also commonly consumed. Gambia’s cuisine reflects its agrarian lifestyle, with meals often featuring locally grown produce and ingredients.

Festivals and Holidays

Gambia celebrates numerous festivals and holidays, many of which are tied to the Islamic calendar. The two major Islamic holidays, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, are widely observed. These festivals are marked by communal prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. Christmas and Easter are also celebrated by the small Christian population.

Cultural festivals, such as the Roots Festival, which celebrates the country’s rich heritage and the famous book “Roots” by Alex Haley, are important events that showcase Gambian music, dance, and art.

History of Gambia

Early History and Colonization

The history of the Gambia dates back thousands of years, with early inhabitants practicing agriculture, fishing, and trade. The area became part of various empires and kingdoms, including the Mali Empire. The Gambia River served as a crucial trade route, particularly during the transatlantic slave trade, when many Africans were forcibly taken to the Americas.

In the 19th century, the Gambia became a British colony, with British interests centered around the Gambia River. The country remained under British control until it gained independence in 1965, making it one of the first African nations to gain independence from colonial rule.

Post-Independence and Political Struggles

After independence, the Gambia experienced periods of political instability and military coups. Yahya Jammeh, who came to power in a coup in 1994, ruled the country with an iron fist for over two decades, suppressing political opposition and human rights. His regime was marked by repression, corruption, and widespread abuse of power.

In 2017, after Jammeh was defeated in a democratic election, the Gambia transitioned to a more democratic system under President Adama Barrow. This peaceful transition marked a significant turning point in the country’s political history. However, the Gambia continues to face challenges in building a more stable, inclusive political system and addressing the legacy of past authoritarianism.