Fact 1: English is the official Language
Despite being surrounded by French-speaking countries, The Gambia is actually an English-speaking nation. The country was a British colony for many years, and English remains the official language to this date. However, local languages including Mandinka, Wolof, Fula and Jola are commonly spoken as well.
Fact 2: The Smallest Country in mainland Africa
With an area of just over 10,000 square kilometres, Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa. Despite its small size, it boasts diverse landscapes, such as savannahs, forests, and beautiful stretches of coastline.
Fact 3: Shaped by the River Gambia
The Gambia is one of the most uniquely shaped countries in the world. The reason is its namesake river - River Gambia - which flows straight through the heart of the country. Tracing its path from the Atlantic Ocean into the inland, the country essentially exists as a narrow strip on both sides of the river.
Fact 4: Home to the Stone Circles of Senegambia
The Gambia, along with its neighboring country Senegal, is home to the Stone Circles of Senegambia - four large sites of stone circles. Considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these circles provide evidence of a highly organized society with rituals and ceremonies from over a millennium ago.
Fact 5: Has Two Names
Officially, this West African nation is called 'The Republic of The Gambia.' However, to avoid any confusion with Zambia, it is commonly referred to as 'The Gambia' - making it one of the few countries globally to have 'The' as part of its official name.
Fact 6: Home to an Array of Wildlife
Despite its relatively small physical size, The Gambia boasts a rich diversity of wildlife. Africa’s largest pelican colony resides at the Bijilo National Park, while River Gambia National Park is a safe haven for many hippopotamus, African clawless otters, and various primate species.
Fact 7: The Land of Kora
The Gambia is known for a unique musical instrument called the Kora. This 21-string lute-bridge-harp is native to the Mandinka people and plays a vital role in the region's traditional music.
Fact 8: Kunta Kinteh Island
Formerly known as James Island, Kunta Kinteh island holds a painful reminder of slavery days. The island was a place for slave trading by Europeans. Its renaming in 2011 was an homage to Kunta Kinteh, a character in Alex Haley's novel 'Roots', who was said to be captured from there.
Fact 9: Oyster Harvesting and Aquaculture
Women in The Gambia play a significant role in the country's aquaculture. They are primarily responsible for harvesting oysters from the mangroves along the River Gambia, which forms a significant part of local cuisine.
Fact 10: A Green Approach to Tourism
The Gambia is known for its efforts to promote sustainable tourism, with initiatives aimed at preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Several eco-lodges and wildlife conservation programs have been established throughout the country.
Fact 11: Independence Story
The Gambia gained independence from the British Empire on February 18, 1965. Despite peaceful negotiations, Gambians are proud of achieving self-governance, annually celebrating their Independence Day.
Fact 12: Economic Contributions
Peanuts are one of the major economic contributors in The Gambia. Interestingly, while they are locally known as groundnuts, they make up a significant portion of the country's exports.
Fact 13: Contribution to Research
The Gambia, particularly the Medical Research Council Unit, has contributed to several important health researches, including the development of the pneumococcal vaccine, saving millions of lives worldwide.
Fact 14: Colourful Traditional Attire
Brightly colored traditional attire is worn throughout The Gambia. Boubous, a flowing gown for both sexes, are popular, and many prints often represent local proverbs or sayings.
Fact 15: Traditional African Wrestling
Traditional African wrestling, known as 'Borreh,' is a popular sport in The Gambia. Wrestlers, usually young village men, compete for local glory and occasionally for cash prizes.
Fact 16: Domoda
One of the Gambia’s national dishes is Domoda, a peanut soup that is made with meat, usually beef or chicken, and vegetables. Despite the simplicity of its ingredients, the dish is renowned for its complex flavor combinations.
Fact 17: Religion in The Gambia
Religion plays a significant role in The Gambia, with over 90% of the population practicing Islam, followed by smaller communities of Christians and those following traditional indigenous religions.
Fact 18: Birth of the famous President’s Award Scheme
The President's Award Scheme, a highly successful global youth empowerment program, started in The Gambia in 1979. It was initiated by then-President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara and continues to run even today.
Fact 19: Gambia in Literature
The Gambia has been a setting for numerous novels, including ‘The Roots' by Alex Haley. This work, tracing the author's ancestors back to The Gambia, became extremely popular and was adapted into a television series.
Fact 20: Gambia’s Hospitality
The Gambia is famously known as the ‘Smiling Coast of Africa,’ a testament to the friendly and welcoming nature of Gambians. This nickname invites tourists worldwide to experience the country’s beautiful beaches, rich history, and delightful culture.