The Gambia

PHOTO CAPTION: The Gambia Map.

The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, located in West Africa. It is almost entirely surrounded by Senegal, except for its western coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, which is approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles). The country’s territory is a narrow strip of land that follows the River Gambia inland for about 320 kilometres (200 miles), with the river being one of the country’s most important geographical feature.

PHOTO CAPTION: The Gambia Map. SOURCE: worldatlas.

PHOTO CAPTION: The Kartong wetlands of Gambia. SOURCE: EA Library.

The name “Gambia” originates from the Gambia River, the country’s primary geographical feature. The Portuguese explorers who arrived in the region in the 15th century adopted a local term, Kambra or Kambaa (meaning “the Gambia River” in Mandinka), which they later modified and anglicised to “Gambia” during British colonial. To distinguish it from other countries with similar names, such as Zambia, the definite article “The” was officially added, making it “The Gambia”.
Before being named The Gambia, the region was historically known as Senegambia. This term referred to the area encompassing both present-day The Gambia and Senegal, as it was not until the late 19th century that a distinct separation between the two countries was made.
The Gambia features a diverse landscape with significant portions of savanna, wetlands, and forested areas. Savanna, particularly woodland and grassland, dominates the upland areas, while wetlands, including mangroves and inland swamps, are prevalent in low-lying areas. The river itself serves as a vital water source and transportation route, playing a crucial role in the daily lives of many Gambians.

PHOTO CAPTION: Ghana Empire, one of the most powerful kingdoms of Western Sudan. SOURCE: ancient-origins.

Early Origins
Before colonial rule, the area now known as The Gambia was part of several prominent West African empires, including the Ghana Empire, Mali Empire, and Songhai Empire.
These empires facilitated extensive trans-Saharan trade, dealing in commodities such as gold, ivory and slaves. The region was also characterised by smaller kingdoms and chiefdoms, such as the Wolof states of Walor and Jollof, which had complex political and social structures.
The first known record of The Gambia is a brief reference in the account by Hanno the Carthaginian of his voyage through West Africa around 470BC. During the 5th and 8th centuries AD most of the Sene-Gambian area was part of the Empire of Ghana, whose rulers were of the Serahuli tribe.
Islam spread into the region during this period, significantly influencing its culture and institutions. The Kingdom of Wuli, located on the north bank of the Gambia River, was one of the notable pre-colonial states. Established around the 13th century, Wuli was a Mandinka kingdom that controlled important trade routes linking the upper Niger River valley with the coast until the emergence of colonialism.
The Gambia is ethnically diverse, comprising several groups, each with its own language and cultural traditions. The major ethnic groups of the Gambia are Mandinka, Fula (Fulani), Wolof Jola, Serahule Jahanka and Serer.

Mandinka People

PHOTO CAPTION: The Mandinka, Malinke (also known as Mandinko or Mandingo). SOURCE: yaden-africa.

The Mandinka people, who make up over 30% of The Gambia’s population, are descendants of the great Mali Empire, a powerful West African kingdom that rose to prominence in the 13th century under Sundiata Keita. As the empire expanded westward, the Mandinka migrated in search of fertile land and new opportunities, eventually settling in The Gambia, where they became the country’s largest ethnic group.
At the heart of Mandinka identity is their language, spoken not only across The Gambia but throughout much of West Africa, serving as a strong link between communities. The majority of Mandinka are Muslims, following the Maliki school of Islamic thought, yet many also preserve traditional spiritual customs. This blending of faith and heritage is a hallmark of Mandinka culture, reflecting a deep respect for both religion and ancestral practices.
Farming remains central to Mandinka life, with crops such as millet, rice, and groundnuts (peanuts) playing a vital role in both daily sustenance and the national economy. Village life, while modest, is rich in cultural expression music, storytelling, and dance are woven into celebrations and everyday routines. Even as modern influences grow, the Mandinka continue to preserve their traditions, contributing a vibrant and enduring spirit to the cultural fabric of The Gambia.

 Fulani

The Fulani people of The Gambia, known locally as Fula or Fulbe, make up about 22% of the country’s population. Originally nomadic herders from Futa Toro in Senegal, they migrated across West Africa, seeking ideal grazing lands. Today, many Gambian Fulani have transitioned into farming, commerce, and various professions, blending their pastoral heritage with modern life.
At the heart of Fulani culture is their Islamic faith, with nearly all Gambian Fulani practicing Sunni Islam through the Maliki school. Historically, they contributed to the spread of Islam in the region during the Marabout wars and continue to emphasize Islamic education alongside secular studies.
The Pulaar language ties Gambian Fulani to other Fulani communities across West Africa, fostering a strong sense of cultural pride and connection. Family and community remain central to Fulani life, with close-knit extended families often led by elders who uphold values of elegance, kindness, and dignity. Traditions are celebrated through music, dance, and storytelling, led by griots who use instruments like the hoddu and riti to keep their history alive.
Fulani customs also shine in their culinary traditions, like Latcheri e Kosan (couscous with milk), and unique beauty practices, such as gum and lip tattoos. Fulani women are skilled in creating intricate jewellery and vibrant attire, adding to the community’s aesthetic and cultural richness. Community rituals, especially the Sudu wedding covering, reflect the depth of their heritage and family ties.

Wolof People

PHOTO CAPTION: Wolof Tribe. SOURCE: inlandtown.

The Wolof people make up around 16% of The Gambia’s population, and their language, also called Wolof, is widely spoken not only in The Gambia but also in parts of Senegal and Mauritania. In The Gambia, Wolof serves as more than just a mother tongue—it acts as a bridge language, enabling communication and connection among people from different ethnic backgrounds and communities.
Historically, the Wolof are primarily farmers and fishermen, especially in riverine areas where fertile land supported agriculture. In more recent times, many have branched out into trade, small-scale enterprises, and traditional crafts. Wolof artisans are especially well known for their talents in weaving, wood carving, and leatherwork. In markets across the country, Wolof women play a vibrant role, often recognized for their entrepreneurial spirit and distinctive, colorful fashion sense.
Wolof culture is rich in storytelling, music, and cuisine, with beloved dishes like benachin—a flavorful one-pot rice meal—earning a special place in Gambian households. Their contributions in language, craftsmanship, and cultural expression continue to add depth and character to everyday life in The Gambia, reflecting a strong sense of heritage and community pride.

Jola People

PHOTO CAPTION: A traditional Jola initiation festival. SOURCE: EA Library.

The Jola people make up about 10-15% of The Gambia’s population and are mainly found in the Foni area of southwest Gambia. Their history is a bit of a mystery since they don’t have griots to pass down stories. Legend has it that their ancestors arrived by canoe on the River Gambia, and when it split, the Jolas landed in Foni Kombo.
The Jola are primarily farmers and known for their hardworking nature. Men typically grow cash crops like peanuts and mangos, while women handle gardening and household duties. Most Jolas are Muslims, but their daily lives also include a mix of traditional beliefs.
One of the biggest events for the Jola is the initiation ceremony called Futampaf. In their culture, a young man can’t marry or step into adulthood until he’s gone through this initiation. The ceremony features music and dance, with men showcasing their strength by striking themselves with knives, protected by sacred water and amulets from a marabout (spiritual healer). Women sing and dance alongside them, dressed in matching outfits.
During the ceremony, boys aged 8 to 20 get their heads shaved and wear traditional clothes. They’re paraded around the village before spending time in the bush with older relatives to learn about manhood. After the initiation, they can marry and start families, continuing the Jola traditions.

Jakhanke People

PHOTO CAPTION: Jakhanke culture. SOURCE: 101lasttribe.

The Jakhanke people of The Gambia are a small but influential community known for their deep Islamic faith, peaceful values, and dedication to religious scholarship. Originally part of the larger Soninke (or Serahulle) ethnic group, the Jakhanke established themselves centuries ago across The Gambia, Senegal, and Guinea-Bissau.
In The Gambia, they live in closely connected villages and are widely respected as Islamic clerics and teachers. Together with the Mandinka, the Jakhanke make up approximately 33.3% of the country’s population.
While the Jakhanke often communicate in Mandinka with their neighbors, they maintain their cultural identity through the private use of their ancestral Azer language. Their religious practices are guided by the teachings of Al-Hajj Salim Suwari, a 15th-century scholar who promoted a peaceful, non-political approach to Islam. This emphasis on learning and quiet devotion has shaped Jakhanke communities as centers of spiritual life, distinct in their avoidance of conflict and focus on education.
Jakhanke men typically prioritize Islamic studies over Western schooling, which means many are more fluent in Arabic than in English. This path has not only preserved religious traditions but also enabled many to thrive in business and professional life. Historically, the Jakhanke have lived as self-sufficient farmers, keeping their communities independent from political rulers. Their villages were known as sanctuaries—places of peace where military service was avoided and relocation was chosen over confrontation, a testament to their enduring commitment to harmony.

Serer People

The Serer (or Serrer, Serere as they are sometimes known) make up less than 2% of the population of The Gambia. They originated from the Senegal River Valley, at the border of present-day Senegal and Mauritania, and moved south in the 11th and 12th century. They migrated again in the 15th and 16th centuries as their villages were invaded and they were subjected to religious persecution by Islamic forces.
They are traditionally fishermen and boat builders and can be found along the coastal regions, as well as the entrance to the Gambia River and particularly in Barra. They and the Jola are believed to be the original first migrants to inhabit the country.
Traditionally, the Serer are renowned for their complex religious beliefs and spiritual systems, many of which revolve around ancestral worship and nature. While a portion of the population has adopted Islam or Christianity, traditional Serer religion remains influential, especially during cultural ceremonies and rites of passage. These ceremonies often include music, dance, and storytelling, passed down orally from generation to generation, preserving their history and values in a vivid and engaging manner.

Krio People

The Krio people, also known as Creole or Aku, are a minority Gambian ethnic-group. The Aku people are the descendants of the Creole community from Sierra Leone. The Krio people account for over 2% of the country’s population. The Gambian Aku community is an extension of the Creoles from the Freetown community, and they have roots in England, North America, West Indies, and numerous African communities. 

 The Arrival of the Europeans

The Portuguese were the first European sailors to arrive in the region in 1455. Until the 16th Century, the Portuguese monopolized trade along and between the Senegal and Gambia Rivers, establishing trading posts in Saint Louis, Island of Goree in Senegal and Tancrowall (Tankular), Vintang (Bintang), Nyani Maru and Fata Tenda in the Gambia. Dutch, French and British displaced the Portuguese trading salt, iron, beads, firearms and gunpowder for ivory, ebony, beeswax, gold, and slaves.
Because of its navigability, the Gambia River became the preferred route to the African hinterland and James Island was developed to be the first European settlement in the Gambia. A fort was built on the Island to control the movement of ships in and out of the Gambia.
At the same time St Louis was also settled to control trade in and out of Banjul was settled in 1820, and a year later Britain declared the Gambia River a British Protectorate and acquired St Mary’s Island (Bathurst Island) and Lemaine Island (Janjanbureh Island) as crown lands and colonies. End of slave trade led to the introduction of groundnuts as main cash crop.
The French settled Dakar in 1857 and constructed the railroad between St. Louis and Dakar in 1886. Round about the same time, the Gambia became a crown colony, and France and Britain drew the boundaries between Senegal. Between 1890 and 1900 both powers expanded their rule across the territories with the demarcation of the 740km border and violent confrontation with a number of Islamic rulers and Kingdoms.
Following a conference in Paris in 1889, France relinquished control of the Gambia River to Britain, and the present-day boundaries of the Gambia were drawn.

In 1900, Britain imposed an indirect rule on the protectorate, dividing it into 35 chiefdoms, each with its own chief. The real power was concentrated in the British governor and his staff at Bathurst.
Slavery was abolished throughout the protectorate in 1906. During World War Two, the Gambia contributed soldiers for the Burmese campaign and was used as an air-staging post. Political parties were late in developing, but by 1960, there were parties demanding independence. Britain, believing that eventually the Gambia would merge with Senegal, granted the country internal self-governance in 1963.

The Gambia’s Political History: From Independence to the Present

PHOTO CAPTION: Sir Dawda Jawara. SOURCE: Nationaal Archief.

The Gambia gained independence from British colonial rule on February 18, 1965, becoming a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth. Initially, the country retained Queen Elizabeth II as head of state, represented locally by a governor-general. This changed in 1970, when a national referendum led to the establishment of a republic.
Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, who had been Prime Minister since independence, became the first President of The Gambia. Under his leadership and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), the country enjoyed relative political stability and upheld a multi-party democratic system for nearly 30 years.
Despite its democratic framework, Jawara’s administration faced growing criticism in the late 1980s and early 1990s due to economic difficulties, allegations of corruption, and rising public dissatisfaction. These frustrations culminated on July 22, 1994, when a group of junior army officers led by Lieutenant Yahya Jammeh staged a bloodless coup.
The military dissolved the constitution, banned political parties, and ruled through a military council. Although Jammeh promised a return to civilian rule, he later contested elections under a new party, the Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction (APRC), and remained in power for over two decades.
During Jammeh’s 22-year rule, The Gambia experienced increasing authoritarianism. His government was frequently accused of human rights violations, including the suppression of the press, arbitrary arrests, and the persecution of political opponents.
While Jammeh invested in infrastructure and public services, his leadership style drew heavy criticism both domestically and internationally. By the mid-2010s, growing dissatisfaction with his regime sparked a unification of opposition forces and greater civil resistance.
A turning point came with the presidential election of December 2016, when opposition candidate Adama Barrow, backed by a coalition of seven political parties, defeated Jammeh. Initially, Jammeh accepted the results but later reversed his decision, leading to a constitutional crisis.
Regional pressure, especially from ECOWAS, along with international mediation, forced Jammeh into exile in January 2017, allowing Barrow to assume office. This marked the first peaceful transfer of power through democratic elections in the country’s history.
Since taking office, President Barrow has focused on democratic reforms, transitional justice, and rebuilding state institutions weakened under Jammeh. His government established the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) to investigate past abuses and promote national healing.
While progress has been made, political tensions and economic challenges remain. The Gambia continues to navigate the path toward a more open, accountable, and inclusive democracy, with hopes for a stronger and more unified nation in the years ahead.