The Gambia is a country located in West Africa. Its capital city is Banjul. The country has a total area of approximately 10,689 square kilometers and a population of around 2.3 million people. The Gambia is a republic with a multi-party political system. It gained independence from the United Kingdom on February 18, 1965. The first president of The Gambia was Sir Dawda Jawara. The official language is English, and the majority of the population practices Islam as their religion.
The Gambia’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and remittances from Gambians living abroad. The currency used is the Gambian dalasi. The country is rich in natural resources such as fish, clay, silica sand, titanium, and oil. The main export of The Gambia is peanuts, followed by fish and cotton. Industries in the country include agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and construction.
The Gambia has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age. The country has a diverse culinary tradition, with popular dishes such as domoda (peanut stew) and benachin (one-pot rice dish). The culture of The Gambia is influenced by various ethnic groups and tribes, including the Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, and Jola.
The Gambia is known for its notable individuals, including former President Yahya Jammeh and Fatou Bensouda – lawyer, Musa Barrow – footballer, Jaha Dukureh – human rights activist, and more.
The climate in The Gambia is tropical, with a wet and dry season. The wet season runs from June to October, while the dry season lasts from November to May. The country has a diverse geography, with coastal plains, mangrove swamps, and the River Gambia running through it. The highest mountain in The Gambia is Mount Lamin, standing at 53 meters. The country is also surrounded by water bodies, including the Atlantic Ocean and the River Gambia.
Tourism is an important industry in The Gambia, with attractions such as the Abuko Nature Reserve, Kachikally Crocodile Pool, and the historic city of James Island. The Gambia shares borders with Senegal to the north, east, and south. The country is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations and the African Union.