Gambian

Gambian refers to anything related to The Gambia, a country in West Africa, or to its people. The Gambia is the smallest country on the African mainland, bordered by Senegal except for a short Atlantic coastline. The country is characterized by the Gambia River running from the interior to the sea, with Banjul as the capital and administrative center; Serekunda is the largest urban area. The official language is English, inherited from colonial rule, while many local languages such as Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, and Jola are widely spoken. The Dalasi is the national currency.

Ethnic groups include Mandinka, Fula, Wolof, Jola, and others. Islam is the predominant religion, with Christians and adherents of traditional beliefs also present. Education has expanded since independence, and urban areas reflect a mix of local traditions and global influences. Gambian culture emphasizes community, family, music, and storytelling, with traditional performances common in villages and towns.

Gambian cuisine blends rice, fish, peanuts, and vegetables, with signature dishes such as benachin and domoda. The economy relies on tourism, agriculture (notably peanuts), fishing, and growing services in urban centers. The Gambia is a member of ECOWAS and the Commonwealth, having rejoined the Commonwealth in 2018, which supports regional cooperation and trade.

Independence was achieved in 1965 from the United Kingdom, and The Gambia became a republic in 1970. A 1994 military coup led by Yahya Jammeh defined much of the late 20th century, followed by a transition to civilian rule after the 2016 elections. In 2017, Adama Barrow won the presidency in a peaceful transfer of power, marking a turning point in democratic governance. The Gambian identity is shaped by its riverine geography, multilingual society, and a tradition of hospitality and resilience.