In 1996, the Gambia exchanged military for civilian rule and liberalized its economy. Most of the population continues to depend on crops and livestock for their livelihood. Small-scale manufacturing involves processing peanuts, fish, and hides.
As the smallest country on the African continent, this slither of land along the Gambia River jutting into the heart of Senegal has found a niche in tourism and as a trading post between West Africa and the World. Reexporting is a major economic activity.
Construction projects and tourism have drawn foreign participants to this former British colony. The Gambia, however, continues to rely heavily on bilateral and multilateral aid as well as IMF technical advice and assistance.
Country Profile
The Republic of The Gambia meanders for 470 km along the banks of one of Africa’s most navigable rivers, The Gambia, into Senegal. The capital and main port of Banjul is built on a small peninsula on the south bank of a large, lake-like estuary.
Beautiful beaches and warm coastal waters are the main tourist attractions. The climate is hot and humid. Ethnic groups comprise the Mande, including the rural Mandinka, and the Atlantic peoples, including the Wolof. English is the official language but Wolof is spoken in the towns and Mandinka in rural areas.
About 85% of populations are Muslim. There is also a sizeable Christian minority.
Business Activity
Agriculture
Peanuts, millet, sorghum, rice, cassava (tapioca), palm kernels, livestock, forestry and fishing (not fully exploited)
Industries
Processing peanuts, fish and hides, tourism, beverages, agricultural machinery assembly, wood working, metal working, closing
Natural Resources
Fish
Exports
$93 million (est.2007): food, manufactures, fuel, and machinery, transport equipment.
Major Trading Partners
India, China, Malaysia, Senegal, UK, Indonesia, France, Cote d’Ivore, Brazil, Netherlands.
Source: Les de Villiens, Africa 2009, Ninth Edition (A publication of The Corporate Council on Africa and Business Books International)