Gambia

The Gambia gained its independence from the UK in 1965. Geographically surrounded by Senegal, it formed a short-lived federation of Senegambia between 1982 and 1989. In 1991 the two nations signed a friendship and cooperation treaty, but tensions have flared up intermittently since then. Yahya A. J. J. JAMMEH led a military coup in 1994 that overthrew the president and banned political activity. A new constitution and presidential elections in 1996, followed by parliamentary balloting in 1997, completed a nominal return to civilian rule. JAMMEH has been elected president in all subsequent elections, including most recently in late 2006.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 1,688,359 (July 2007 est.)

Nationality (Noun): Gambian(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Gambian

Official Language(s): English

Major Languages Spoken: Bambara, English, Fuuta Jalon, Malinke, Mandingo, Mandinka, Wolof

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Republic of The Gambia

Country Name (short form): The Gambia

Country Name (local long form): none

Country Name (local short form): none

Name of Capital: Banjul

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Gambia: Senegal

Land Area: 10000 sq km

Water Area: 1300 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly less than twice the size of Delaware

Total Land Boundry: 740 km

Coastline: 80 km

National Holiday: Independence Day, 18 February (1965)

International Phone Code: 220

Currency Code: dalasi (GMD)

Internet Country Code: .gm

US Embassy Location: Kairaba Avenue, Fajara, Banjul

US Embassy Mailing Address: P. M. B. No. 19, Banjul