Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
With around 115 people per square kilometre, The Gambia has one of the highest popula-
tion densities in Africa. The strongest concentration of people is around the urbanised
zones of the Atlantic Coast. Forty-five per cent of the population is under 14 years old.
The main ethnic groups are the Mandinka (comprising around 43%), the Wolof (about
15%) and the Fula (around 18%). Smaller groups include the Serer and Diola (also spelt
Jola). About 90% of the population is Muslim. Christianity is most widespread among the
Diola.
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Arts & Crafts
The
kora,
Africa's most iconic instrument, was created in the region of Gambia and
Guinea-Bissau after Malinké groups came here to settle from Mali. Famous
kora
players
include Amadou Bansang Jobarteh, Jali Nyama Suso, Dembo Konte and Malamini
Jobarteh.
In the 1960s, The Gambia was hugely influential in the development of modern West
African music. Groups like the Afro-funky Super Eagles and singer Labah Sosse had a
huge impact in The Gambia, Senegal and beyond. Today, it's locally brewed reggae and
hip hop that get people moving. Even the president has been seen rubbing shoulders with
the world's reggae greats, proud to hear his country nicknamed 'Little Jamaica'.
Banjul's national museum has a few good examples of traditional statues and carved
masks on display. Leading contemporary artists Njogu Touray and Etu produce colourful
works from mixed materials. Fabric printers such as Baboucar Fall and Toimbo Laurens
push the art of batik in new creative directions.
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Food & Drink
National dishes include
domodah
(rice with groundnut sauce) and
benachin
(rice cooked
in tomato, fish and vegetable sauce). Vegetarians ought to try
niebbe,
spicy red beans that
are served with bread on street corners.
The Gambia has great local juices, such as
bissap
(made from sorrel) and creamy
bouyi
(made from the fruits of the baobab tree).
Ataaya
(strong, syrupy green tea) is a great
pick-me-up. For something more potent, try a cup of thick, yeasty palm wine or an ice-
cold JulBrew beer.
