What is Gambia?
The Gambia is a small country located on the west coast of Africa. It is unique in its geographical shape, as it is an enclave surrounded by Senegal, with the Atlantic Ocean on its western coast. Known for its rich culture, the Gambia is often referred to as “The Smiling Coast of Africa.” Despite its small size, the country boasts a rich history, vibrant traditions, and a growing tourism industry.
Administrative Divisions
Gambia is divided into 5 regions and the Banjul City which serves as the capital city. The regions are:
- Banjul (Capital)
- Western Region
- Central River Region
- Lower River Region
- Upper River Region
- North Bank Region
Banjul, situated on an island at the mouth of the Gambia River, serves as the political and administrative center.
Currency Details
- Currency Name: Gambian Dalasi (GMD)
- Symbol: D
- Subunit: 1 Dalasi = 100 Bututs
- Central Bank: Central Bank of The Gambia
Type of Government
Gambia operates under a Presidential Republic system. The President is both the head of state and the head of government. The legislative branch is a unicameral National Assembly, and the judicial system is based on British common law. Gambia has seen significant political changes over the past decade, moving toward democratic reforms after years of authoritarian rule.
Detailed Hierarchy of Government Roles
Executive Branch
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| President | Head of state and government, elected by the people | Holds executive powers and makes key national decisions. |
| Vice President | Deputy to the President | Assists the President in governance and may act as President in their absence. |
| Cabinet | A group of appointed ministers | Responsible for implementing government policies and overseeing various ministries. |
Legislative Branch
Gambia’s National Assembly is composed of 58 seats. Members are elected for a five-year term and have the responsibility of making and reviewing laws. The Assembly plays a critical role in shaping Gambia’s laws and policies.
Judicial Branch
The Judiciary of Gambia operates under the framework of the Constitution, with the Supreme Court being the highest court. The country has a well-established legal system with courts handling criminal, civil, and family matters.
International Memberships
Gambia is a member of the following international organizations:
- United Nations (UN)
- Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
- African Union (AU)
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
- International Criminal Court (ICC)
Military Structure
Gambia’s military consists of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), which includes the Army, Navy, and Air Force. While the GAF is relatively small, it plays an important role in maintaining internal security and contributing to regional peacekeeping operations.
Emergency Numbers
- Police: 999
- Medical Emergency: 103
- Fire: 118
SWOT Analysis of Gambia
Strengths
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions.
- A growing tourism industry due to its natural beauty and historical sites.
- Relatively peaceful and stable government, with improvements in governance and democracy.
Weaknesses
- Small economy with a reliance on agriculture, tourism, and remittances.
- High levels of poverty and unemployment, particularly in rural areas.
- Inadequate infrastructure and limited access to healthcare and education in some regions.
Opportunities
- Potential to expand the tourism sector with more focus on ecotourism.
- Strengthening of regional trade and cooperation within the ECOWAS framework.
- Development of renewable energy and agricultural industries to diversify the economy.
Threats
- Vulnerability to global economic fluctuations affecting trade and tourism.
- Potential political instability due to the recent history of authoritarian rule.
- Climate change affecting agriculture and the country’s coastal areas.
Additional Information
- Official Language: English
- Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
- National Anthem: “For The Gambia, Our Homeland” (National Anthem of Gambia)