THE GAMBIA IN GENERAL

The Gambia is one of the smallest countries in Africa and is also referred to by many people as “the garden gate of Africa”. Also the nickname “Smiling Coast of Africa” is much used as Gambian people are very friendly and like to joke around. Many tribes live peacefully next to each other although some friendly teasing about their backgrounds happen back and forth. The Mandinka tribe represents the major part (42 %) of the inhabitants, followed by The Fullani (18%) and The Wolof people (16%). Every tribe has it own customs and language but the language spoken by most all Gambians is English, especially in the suburban areas. About 90% of the population is Muslim. Still there are many ancient animistic customs and beliefs to be found in their every day life. For example, many Gambians will visit a Marabout (medicine man) to obtain a jou-jou (mascot) to bring them luck, although they won’t admit to this easily!

With its social tolerance The Gambia really sets an example to the rest of the world, not only are all the Muslim holidays celebrated but also the main Christian holidays.

National sport number is football (soccer) and if you do get the chance then definitely go and see a match. Gambians also love to dance, make music and party. Only during the month of Ramadan (period of abstinence and self-reflection) things are a bit low key.