There may be many things you probably don’t know about Gambia. However, these are some of the most interesting.
About The Gambia
Officially known as the Republic of The Gambia, it is the smallest country in mainland Africa. It is nestled within Senegal, except for its coastline, making it a unique geographical entity.
The capital city, “Banjul”, is located on Saint Mary’s Island at the mouth of the Gambia River. Historically, the Mandinka people would gather fibrous plants there to make rope. Its name “Banjul” originates from the Mandinka word “Bang julo,” which means “rope fibre.” Over time, mispronunciation led to it being known as Banjul.
While being almost 300 miles long, it’s only 15 miles wide at its most narrow point and only 30 miles at its widest.
At its highest point, The Gambia reaches a modest 53 meters above sea level. This nameless location, informally referred to as Red Rock, holds the distinction of being the least elevated high point among all African nations.
Its History
The UNESCO-listed Kunta Kinteh Island, formerly known as James Island, played a pivotal role in the slave trade when captives were transported downriver from the 1500s to the early 1800s.
Politics
In 2015, President Jammeh announced his full title was ” His Excellency Sheik Professor Alhaji Dr Yahya AJJ Jammeh Babili Mansa”. Babili Mansa roughly translates as a chief bridge builder or a conqueror of rivers in the Mandinkan language. You would be excused for thinking that this title is the longest held by anyone but you would be wrong. That honour goes to Sultan Mehmed IV of the Ottoman Empire.
The Gambia was under British protection from 1894 until 1965, when it achieved independence, with Dawda Jawara as its prime minister.
Fun Facts
Gambia is the only country in West Africa where English is the official language, making it an easily accessible destination for English-speaking tourists.
One of only two countries worldwide that use “The” in their title. The main reason for this was so as to not confuse “Gambia” with “Zambia”. The other country that shares this esteemed distinction is none other than The Bahamas.
I hope you enjoyed reading these things you probably don’t know about Gambia and that you choose to visit this beautiful country and experience for yourself its charming people, history and flora and fauna.