The Gambia

Welcome to The New Gambia.
Are you Moving to the Smiling Coast of Africa, The Gambia, Expats will find a country that is home to a vibrant culture characterised by public wrestling matches, heaving market places and energetic soul loving music. Gambia is one of the smallest countries in Africa and unlike its West African neighbours it has experienced a long spell of stability since independence in Protected content . Unfortunately, political stability hasn’t translated to prosperity here and Gambia remains very poor. Most of the expats living in Gambia work in the capital city, Banjul, and are employed by UN, AU, EU, Gambia Ministries, Foreign Missions, Self SME or an NGO. There are also a number of expats who relocate to areas such as Fajara, Kololi popularly known as Senegambia, Brusubi, or Kotu, Serekunda, and Brikama to set up their own business and capitalise on Gambia’s growing tourism industry. Expats should expect to experience a slower pace of life, especially when doing business in Gambia. Getting the correct visa can be an arduous process and bureaucratic backlogs often cause endless frustration for some new expats. It's easy when you deal with the right residence for assistance.
Malaria is a serious problem in Gambia for some people, so expats should make sure they have an adequate supply of prophylactics before arrival. Medical facilities in Gambia are still developing and most hospitals lack adequate equipment and are understaffed. My advice is to have a fully comprehensive health insurance policy that covers them for treatment at a private hospital.
Anyone living in Gambia will grow accustomed to hearing a diverse range of local languages including Wollof, Fula, Jola and Mandika. However, English is the official language and communication should not be too much of an issue. Gambians are known for being warm and friendly and it will soon become apparent to new arrivals how the country earned its reputation as the ‘Smiling Coast’.
If you are a type that worries about Religion, then I will tell you that Islam is the predominant religion practised in Gambia, and expats should always be respectful of local traditions and dress conservatively. Protected content
Expats moving to Gambia will be reassured to know that it's among the safest countries in Africa and the whole world, and also there is very little serious crime committed against foreigners, very little or none! This doesn't mean expats should become complacent as there are plenty of conmen and hustlers looking to take advantage of naïve new arrivals. Those relocating to Gambia are likely to experience some culture shock and a degree of frustration when it comes to bureaucratic backlogs, but they will be rewarded with a rich cultural experience in a vibrant and diverse country.
Welcome to the New Gambia, our Home land.
By Alfred Jay Jay Robinson
Banjul InterNations Ambassador