Facts about The Gambia
Government and history
The Gambia is one of Africa's smallest countries and unlike many of its West African neighbours it has enjoyed long spells of stability since independence in 1965. It is democratic country headed by Alhaji Yahya A.J.J. Jammeh.
On 18 February 1965, Gambia was granted independence from the United Kingdom and joined The Commonwealth. Officially the Republic of The Gambia, commonly known as Gambia, is a country in Western Africa. The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, bordered to the north, east, and south by Senegal, with a small coast on the Atlantic Ocean in the west.
Its borders roughly correspond to the path of the Gambia River, the nation's namesake, which flows through the country's center and empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Its size is almost 10,500 km² with an estimated population of 1,700,000.
The Gambia has a liberal, market-based economy characterized by traditional subsistence agriculture, a historic reliance on groundnuts (peanuts) for export earnings, a re-export trade built up around its ocean port, low import duties, minimal administrative procedures, a fluctuating exchange rate with no exchange controls, and a significant tourism industry.
Society and Culture
Gambians are known for their excellent music, as well as their dancing. Although Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, its culture is the product of very diverse influences. The national borders outline a narrow strip on either side of the River Gambia, a body of water that has played a vital part in the nation's destiny and is known locally as "The River." Without natural barriers, Gambia has become home to most of the ethnic groups that are present throughout western Africa, especially those in Senegal.
The people are very friendly and welcome. It is also known as the smiling coast.
Statistics
- Full name: Republic of The Gambia
- Population: 1.7 million (UN, 2009)
- Capital: Banjul
- Area: 11,295 sq km (4,361 sq miles)
- Major languages: English (official), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula
- Major religions: Islam, Christianity
- Monetary unit: 1 dalasi = 100 bututs
- Main exports: Peanuts, fish, cotton lint, palm kernels
- GNI per capita: US $390 (World Bank, 2008)
- Internet domain: .gm
- International dialling code: +220