The Gambia, officially the Republic of The Gambia, is the smallest country on mainland Africa, located in West Africa. It is uniquely shaped as a narrow strip of land, approximately 450 km (280 miles) long, following the course of the Gambia River, and is bordered by Senegal on all sides except for a short coastline along the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
Capital and Major Cities:
- Banjul: The capital city, situated on an island at the mouth of the Gambia River, serves as the administrative and commercial center.
- Serekunda: The largest city and economic hub, located just outside Banjul, known for its vibrant markets and cultural life.
Geography and Climate: The Gambia’s landscape is predominantly flat and low-lying, with the Gambia River flowing through its center. The climate is tropical, characterized by a rainy season from June to October and a dry season from November to May.
Population and Society: With an estimated population of around 2.8 million people, The Gambia is one of Africa’s most densely populated countries. The majority ethnic groups include the Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, Jola, and Soninke. Islam is the predominant religion, practiced by about 95% of the population.
Economy: The economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, particularly groundnut (peanut) production, which is a major export. Tourism also plays a significant role, with visitors attracted to the country’s beaches, wildlife, and cultural heritage. However, poverty and food insecurity remain widespread, with nearly half of the population living below the poverty line.
Political History: The Gambia gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1965. After a period of democratic governance, a military coup in 1994 led to the rule of Yahya Jammeh, who governed until 2017. Adama Barrow’s election in December 2016 marked a significant political transition, and he was sworn in as president in January 2017.
Biodiversity: Despite its small size, The Gambia boasts a rich biodiversity, including over 500 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The country’s varied ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna, contributing to its appeal as a nature tourism destination.
Recent Developments: In March 2025, Belarus’s state-owned airline, Belavia, acquired three Airbus A330 aircraft that were previously owned by Gambian airline Magic Air. This acquisition aims to address the shortage of planes caused by Western sanctions on Belarus and Russia.
Overall, The Gambia is a nation with a rich cultural heritage and significant natural resources, facing both challenges and opportunities as it continues to develop in the 21st century.