Country Profile: Gambia, The

The Gambia is a small West African nation bordered by Senegal and the Atlantic Ocean. Its geography features a floodplain along the Gambia River, which serves as a critical resource for agriculture, the backbone of its economy. With a population nearing 2.5 million, the country faces high levels of poverty and dependence on foreign aid, yet it has experienced democratic reforms following a history of military rule. The Gambia operates as a presidential republic, emphasizing its commitment to democratic governance and development.

Geography

The Gambia is located in Western Africa, bordered by Senegal and the North Atlantic Ocean. The country has a total area of 11,300 sq km, including 10,120 sq km of land and 1,180 sq km of water. Characterized by a tropical climate, it features a significant floodplain along the Gambia River, with small hills flanking the terrain. The country's elevation ranges from sea level at the Atlantic coast to a maximum of 63 meters.

62.6% of land is utilized for agriculture (2023).
The Gambia is the smallest country on the African mainland.
80 km of coastline borders the Atlantic Ocean.

People and Society

With an estimated population of 2,523,327 in 2024, The Gambia is home to diverse ethnic groups, primarily the Mandinka and Fulani. English is the official language, while Islam is the predominant religion, practiced by about 96.4% of the population. The age structure indicates a youthful population, with a median age of 20.5 years. Urbanization is increasing, with approximately 64.5% of the population living in urban areas.

2.09% is the projected population growth rate (2025).
68.4 years is the life expectancy at birth (2024).
The literacy rate stands at 51.6% (2021).

Economy

The Gambian economy is primarily agrarian, heavily reliant on agriculture, which comprises approximately 24.1% of GDP. The country faces economic challenges including a high poverty rate and inflation, compounded by dependence on remittances and foreign aid. The real GDP is projected to reach $8.365 billion in 2024, with significant contributions from the services sector.

53.9% of GDP comes from the services sector (2024).
The unemployment rate is estimated at 6.5% (2024).
21.1% of GDP is derived from remittances (2024).

Government

The Gambia is a presidential republic, with Banjul serving as the capital. The current president, Adama Barrow, won reelection in 2021. The legal system incorporates elements of English common law, Islamic law, and customary law. The country has a unicameral National Assembly with 58 seats.

Independence was achieved on February 18, 1965.
Universal suffrage is granted to citizens at 18 years and older.
The next presidential election is expected in 2026.

Military and Security

The Gambian Armed Forces consist of the National Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with the Republican National Guard responsible for internal security. Military expenditures account for 0.6% of GDP in 2024. The country has a history of political instability but has received support and training from ECOWAS for security.

Approximately 3,000-4,000 personnel are in active service (2025).
Military service is mandatory for individuals aged 18-28.
The GAF participates in peacekeeping missions and internal emergency support.

Energy

Electricity access in The Gambia is limited, with only 65.4% of the population having access as of 2022. The country's energy generation is dominated by fossil fuels, making up 99% of installed capacity, with solar and wind contributing marginally.

162,000 kW is the installed generating capacity (2023).
Energy consumption per capita is about 2.731 million Btu/person (2023).
Urban electrification stands at 82.8%.

Environment

The Gambia faces various environmental challenges, including deforestation, desertification, and water pollution. The government is a signatory to multiple international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these issues, including the Climate Change Paris Agreement.

22% of land is forested (2023).
64.5% of the population is urbanized (2023).
Carbon dioxide emissions are estimated at 537,000 metric tonnes (2023).

Transportation

The transportation infrastructure in The Gambia includes a single airport and a small merchant marine fleet. Banjul is the key port of the country, facilitating maritime trade.

As of 2025, there is 1 airport in operation.
The merchant marine consists of 15 vessels (2023).
The country has 1 designated civil aircraft registration code (C5).

Communications

Communications infrastructure features a growing mobile cellular network, with subscriptions exceeding 2.68 million in 2021. Internet penetration is approximately 46% of the population.

There are 60,000 fixed-line telephone subscriptions (2021).
The country operates 1 state-run TV channel and several private radio stations.
Broadband fixed subscriptions total just 6,000 (2022).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	2,523,327 (2024 est.)
Area	11,300 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$8.365 billion (2024)
Energy Consumption	2.731 million Btu/person (2023)
Birth Rate	26.49 births/1,000 (2025)
Unemployment Rate	6.5% (2024 est.)
Life Expectancy	68.4 years (2024 est.)
Literacy Rate	51.6% (2021 est.)
Total Fertility Rate	3.39 children/woman (2025)
Urban Population	64.5% (2023)