It continues its post‑authoritarian democratic transition under President Adama Barrow, with steady economic growth driven by agriculture, construction, and tourism. Population estimates range from 2.5–2.76 million, with high urbanization and a young demographic profile. Growth in 2025 is strong (≈5.9%), inflation has eased, and 2026 is expected to maintain moderate expansion despite external pressures.
Introduction
The Gambia is a presidential republic located in West Africa, known for its narrow geography along the Gambia River and its history shaped by trans‑Saharan and Atlantic trade. It gained independence from the UK in 1965 and has undergone significant political reform since the end of Yahya Jammeh’s 22‑year rule in 2016.
Geography
- Location: Western Africa, bordering Senegal and the North Atlantic Ocean.
- Area: ~11,300 sq km (land 10,120 sq km; water 1,180 sq km).
- Terrain: Floodplain of the Gambia River with low hills; mean elevation 34 m.
- Climate: Tropical; rainy season June–Nov, dry season Nov–May.
- Natural resources: Fish, clay, silica sand, titanium minerals, tin, zircon.
People and Society
- Population: 2.52M (2024 est.) to 2.76M (2024–2025 estimates).
- Urban population: ~57–65%.
- Life expectancy: ~66 years (2023–2024).
- Fertility rate: ~4.0 births per woman.
- Languages: English (official), with widely spoken local languages.
Government
- Type: Presidential republic.
- Capital: Banjul.
- Leadership: President Adama Barrow (re‑elected 2021).
- Political context: Ongoing democratic consolidation; constitutional reform efforts stalled in 2020 and again in 2025.
- Next presidential election: Scheduled for December 5, 2026.
Population
- Estimated 2025 population: ~2.5–2.76 million.
- Density: 176–258 people per sq km (among Africa’s most densely populated).
Economy
- 2025 GDP growth: ~5.9%, driven by agriculture (rice, groundnuts), construction, and tourism.
- Inflation: Returned to single digits (≈7.9% in 2025).
- Key sectors: Agriculture, tourism, services, construction.
- 2026 outlook: GDP projected to grow ~5.3% despite global pressures.
Energy
- Rural electrification is expanding, improving livelihoods and small‑scale industry.
- Electrification projects continue to reduce reliance on fuel‑powered generators in rural areas.
Communications
- Internet usage: ~46% (2023).
- Mobile and internet penetration continue to rise, especially in urban areas.
Transportation
- Dominated by the Gambia River corridor and road networks linking to Senegal.
- Port of Banjul is the main maritime gateway.
Military and Security
- Small security forces focused on internal stability and border management.
- International partners (including the U.S.) support training and capacity building.
Travel Advice (General, 2025)
(No direct travel‑advice sources appeared in search; the following is synthesized from general country conditions and should be verified with official advisories.)
- Expect hot tropical climate; rainy‑season flooding may affect travel.
- Political environment is generally stable but still in democratic transition.
- Infrastructure outside major towns can be limited.
- Verify health requirements (e.g., yellow fever vaccination) and check current advisories from your government.
Expected Trends for 2026
- Economy: Continued growth (~5.3%) but with risks from global inflation and regional instability.
- Politics: Heightened political activity ahead of the December 2026 presidential election.
- Reforms: Constitutional reform may re‑emerge as a national issue.
- Tourism: Expected to expand with improving stability and global recovery.
