An Introduction to The Gambia

An Introduction to The Gambia

The Gambia, officially the Republic of The Gambia, is located in West Africa, and is surrounded by Senegal in the north, east, and south, and on the west it rests on the Atlantic coast. Often called “Africa for beginners,” The Gambia is an easy and friendly country to explore and it is well known as a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 560 different species already recorded.



Although it is mainland Africa’s smallest nation, The Gambia is scenically varied, with long stretches of sandy beaches, lush tropical forests, river-side mangroves, unspoiled wetlands, and large areas of wooded savannah. The River Gambia, one of West Africa’s great waterways, largely defines Gambia’s landscape, stretching the full length of the country and beyond to the east, and emptying out at the coast to the west.



Facts and Figures
Location – West Africa.
Size – 11,295 sq km (4,361 sq miles).
Climate – Tropical; hot rainy season (June to November); cooler dry season (November to June). Average temperatures of 32°C during the day and 24°C during the night. Upcountry (away from the coastal breeze) temperatures can reach 45°C or more.
Government – Republic, with President Dr. Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh.
Population – 1,688,359 (2007).
Capital – Banjul.
Economy – Major earners are agriculture, trade, and tourism.
GDP – US$3.25 billion (2006).
Gross National Income per capita – US$300 (2007).
Life expectancy – 53 years for men, 56 years for women (2005).
Language – Official language is English. Local languages include Mandinka, Wolof, Jola, Fula, and others.
Religion – 90% Muslim, 10% Christian, and some traditional religions.
Currency – Gambian Dalasi (GMD, D), (100 Bututs per Dalasi).
International telephone code – (+220)
Internet – .gm
Time – GMT
Electricity – 220-240 volts, UK-style plug with two flat blades and one flat grounding blade.
Weights and measures – Metric and imperial, as in the UK.
Public holidays – 1 Jan, 18 Feb, Good Friday, Easter Monday, 1 May, 22 Jul, 15 Aug, 25 Dec. (see link for more information).
Flag – Three horizontal stripes: red, blue, and green from top to bottom, each colour separated by a narrow white stripe.
National anthem – For The Gambia our Homeland.
National motto – ‘Progress, Peace, and Prosperity.’
The press – The Daily Observer, The Independent, The Point, Foraaya, and others.
Television – Gambia Television, Premium TV Network (via satellite).
Radio – Radio Gambia, Radio 1 FM, West Coast Radio, City Limits Radio, and others.
GSM mobile networks – Africell, Comium, Gamcel.