What is the Capital of Gambia? Banjul
Capital City of Gambia: Banjul
City Overview
Banjul, the capital city of The Gambia, is located on an island at the mouth of the Gambia River in the Atlantic Ocean. The city serves as the political, economic, and administrative center of the country. Despite being relatively small in size compared to other world capitals, Banjul plays a crucial role in the daily life of Gambia. It is both a major port city and an administrative hub, linking the country to international trade and commerce, while also serving as the home of the government. See Ehuzhou for other major cities in Gambia.
Banjul was originally founded by the British in 1816 as a trading post and colonial administrative center. The city was established in an area that had been used as a settlement for the Portuguese, and its development was strongly influenced by the transatlantic slave trade, as The Gambia was a key site in this dark chapter of world history. Over the years, Banjul has evolved from a colonial outpost into a thriving city, though its size remains modest. It is the smallest capital city in West Africa by population, with an estimated population of approximately 40,000 in the city proper, while the greater Banjul area has a population of around 500,000.
Banjul’s landscape is characterized by wide, tree-lined streets, markets, colonial-era buildings, and vibrant cultural life. The city is surrounded by water, with the Gambia River on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, providing scenic views and fostering an important maritime industry. Banjul also functions as the gateway for visitors to the rest of the country, which is known for its rich cultural traditions, diverse wildlife, and warm hospitality.
Key Facts about Banjul:
- Area: 12 square kilometers (4.6 square miles)
- Population: Approximately 40,000 (2023 estimate)
- Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
- Highest Mountain: The highest point in Banjul and The Gambia is Mount Agiou, which rises to about 53 meters (174 feet) above sea level, located a bit outside the city. However, the country is mostly flat and coastal, with few elevations.
- Longest River: The Gambia River is the longest river in the country, stretching about 1,120 kilometers (696 miles). It flows from the interior of the country through Banjul, out into the Atlantic Ocean.
Banjul’s historical significance, its location on the Gambia River, and its role as the seat of government and trade have made it the center of national life. However, the city faces challenges such as congestion, underdevelopment, and limited infrastructure. Many Gambians live in the surrounding areas, with a significant portion of the population residing in nearby urban centers such as Serekunda, which is part of the Greater Banjul Area.
Major Landmarks in Banjul
- Arch 22
Arch 22 is a monumental arch built in 1996 to commemorate the coup d’état led by Yahya Jammeh, who seized power from the previous government. Standing 35 meters high, the arch offers an impressive view of Banjul and serves as a symbol of The Gambia’s political history. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. - The Gambia National Museum
Located in Banjul, the National Museum of The Gambia offers visitors a deep dive into the country’s rich history, from prehistoric times to the colonial era and beyond. The museum’s collections include artifacts from the country’s diverse ethnic groups, as well as exhibits related to The Gambia’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. - Albert Market
Albert Market is one of the most vibrant and bustling places in Banjul. It is the main market in the city, where local vendors sell a wide range of goods, from fresh produce to textiles, crafts, and spices. The market is a central point for trade and social interaction and provides visitors with a glimpse into the daily life of Banjul’s residents. - Fort Banjul (formerly Fort James)
Fort Banjul was originally built by the British in the 17th century as a military fortress to protect the river’s entrance from Portuguese and Dutch forces. The fort played a key role during the colonial era and the slave trade. It was later used as a military base and is now a national monument. - Kachikally Crocodile Pool
Located just outside Banjul, Kachikally is a sacred crocodile pool, an important cultural and spiritual site for the Mandinka people. It is believed that the waters of the pool possess healing powers, and visitors can observe the crocodiles that inhabit the area. The pool is part of an area rich in folklore and is visited by many for its spiritual significance. - The Independence Stadium
The Independence Stadium is the national sports venue of The Gambia, located in Banjul. It is used for major sporting events, including football matches, athletics, and other cultural performances. The stadium has been a key site for national celebrations and events, symbolizing The Gambia’s independence and sports culture.
Climate Overview
Banjul experiences a tropical savanna climate with a distinct wet season from June to October and a dry season from November to May. The city is characterized by high temperatures year-round, with the wet season bringing heavy rainfall and the dry season marked by cooler temperatures and harmattan winds, which bring dry, dusty air from the Sahara.
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Precipitation (mm) | Avg Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 28 | 3 | 9 |
| February | 28 | 1 | 9 |
| March | 29 | 2 | 9 |
| April | 30 | 2 | 9 |
| May | 31 | 11 | 8 |
| June | 30 | 124 | 6 |
| July | 29 | 240 | 5 |
| August | 29 | 280 | 5 |
| September | 29 | 250 | 5 |
| October | 29 | 160 | 6 |
| November | 29 | 25 | 8 |
| December | 28 | 3 | 9 |
Other Cities That Served as Capital in Gambia’s History
1. Bathurst (1816–1965)
Bathurst was the capital of The Gambia from the time the British established it as a colony in 1816 until 1965. The city, which is now part of Banjul, was named after the British Secretary of State for War and the Colonies, Henry Bathurst. Bathurst served as the primary administrative and military center during British colonial rule. The name “Bathurst” was retained until 1973, when it was officially changed to Banjul.
Country Facts
Gambia, officially known as The Gambia, is the smallest country on the African mainland, located on the west coast of Africa. The Gambia is a narrow strip of land surrounding the Gambia River, bordered by Senegal on all sides except for its western coast along the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Gambia is famous for its music, dance, and traditional crafts. It also boasts a vibrant tourism industry, largely driven by its tropical climate, beaches, and wildlife.
- Population: Approximately 2.6 million (2023 estimate)
- Area: 11,295 square kilometers (4,361 square miles)
- Largest City: Serekunda (part of the Greater Banjul Area)
- Currency: Gambian dalasi (GMD)
- Official Language: English
- ISO Country Code: GM
- Timezone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
The Gambia is a former British colony and achieved independence in 1965. The country is a democratic republic, with a president serving as both head of state and government. Despite its small size, The Gambia plays a significant role in regional politics, often serving as a voice for smaller African nations. It is known for its warm and hospitable people, rich traditions, and beautiful landscapes, including national parks and wildlife reserves.
