At a Glance

Official Name: Republic of the Gambia

Continent: Africa

Area: 3,861 square miles (10,000 sq km)

Population: 1,411,205

Capital City: Banjul

Largest City: Kombo St. Mary (228,214)

Unit of Money: Dalasi

Major Languages: English (official), Mandinka

Literacy: 39%

Land Use: 18% arable, 9% meadows, 28% forest, 45% other

Natural Resources: fish

Government: Republic under multiparty democratic rule

Defense: 15 million

The Place

Gambia is a narrow country on the western coast of Africa, surrounded by Senegal to the north, east, and south. It is approximately 200 miles (320 km) from east to west, and a maximum of 30 miles (50 km) from north to south. The country's 50-mile-(80-km) long coastline fronts the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It is the smallest country in Africa.

The main feature of the country is the Gambia River, which cuts the country in half length-wise. The river begins in Guinea and flows westward to the Atlantic Ocean at Banjul, Gambia's capital. Throughout the country, the Gambia River ranges from 80 to 250 feet (25 to 75 m) above sea level.

Gambia has a subtropical climate and experiences hot and cool seasons. The cool season lasts from November to May, and has temperatures of about 60° F (16° C). In the summer, temperatures can reach 110° F (43° C). Gambia receives about 40 inches of rain each year, mainly during the rainy season from June to October.

The People

There are many different ethnic groups in Gambia. The largest group is the Mandinka, and they tend to be most influential in politics. The Fula make up about 18% of the population and live mainly in the eastern part of the country. The Wolof live in Banjul and in other western regions. The Jola make up one-tenth of the population and also live in the west. The Serahuli are nomads.

Gambia is one of the least populated countries in Africa. The population is growing quickly, however, at a rate of 3.3% each year. Women give birth to an average of 6 children, and half the country's population is under the age of 16. The government is concerned with the rapid population increase and is trying to institute family planning programs. The population density is 315 people per square mile (122 people per sq km).

Health conditions are poor, and the country has high infant mortality and death rates. Malaria, tuberculosis, and parasitic diseases are very common. Life expectancy is 55 years.