Gambia

The Gambia, officially the Republic of The Gambia, is a West African nation along the Atlantic coast. It is the smallest country on the African mainland and is almost entirely surrounded by Senegal, save for its western coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The Gambia River bisects the country, with the capital and main port at Banjul, while the largest urban area is Serrekunda.

The country covers about 11,000 square kilometers and has a tropical climate with a wet season roughly June to October and a dry season. The landscape is mostly flat and low-lying, making it vulnerable to rising sea levels.

Historically, the area has long been linked with neighboring regions and was a British colony known as the Gambia Colony and Protectorate. It gained independence in 1965 and became a republic within the Commonwealth in 1970. The political system is a presidential republic with a National Assembly of 58 seats. A 1994 coup led by Yahya Jammeh interrupted civilian rule until 2017, when Adama Barrow was elected and power was transferred peacefully.

The Gambian economy relies on tourism, agriculture (peanuts), and fishing. The currency is the Gambian dalasi. The population is around 2.5 million, with major ethnic groups including Mandinka, Fula, and Wolof. Islam is the dominant religion, with minorities practicing Christianity and indigenous beliefs. Official language is English, with several local languages widely spoken.