Population and Demographics

A wide variety of ethnic groups live in The Gambia with a minimum of intertribal friction, each preserving its own language and traditions. The Mandinka tribe is the largest (42%), followed by the Fula (18%), Wolof (16%), Jola (10%) and Serahule (9%). The approximately 16,000 non-African residents include Europeans and families of Lebanese origin (roughly 1% of the total population).

Muslims constitute 90% of the population, with Christians of different denominations (9%) and indigenous beliefs accounting for the remainder. Gambians officially observe the holidays of both religions and practice religious tolerance.

More than 63% of Gambians live in rural villages (1993 census), although more and more young people come to the capital in search of work and education. However, figures from the 2003 census show that the gap between the urban and rural populations is narrowing as more areas are declared urban. Whilst urban migration, development projects and modernisation are bringing more Gambians into contact with Western habits and values, the traditional emphasis on the extended family, as well as indigenous forms of dress and celebration, remain integral parts of everyday life.