Officially recognized as the Republic of the Gambia, Gambia is a small country, with an area of 10,689 square kilometers, on Africa’s west coast. Its predominantly, Muslim population is distinguished by the diversity of indigenous tribes in the region including the Mandinka, Fula, Wolof, Jola and Serahuli tribes.
Since gaining independence from Great Britain on February 18, 1965, the nation’s leaders have strove to establish Gambia as a stable state and promote economic development. Although the republic was shaken by a military coup in 1994, the strength of the state withheld. After the creation of a new constitution in 1996, the republic has established a political system defined by three branches, and a mixed legal system of common and Islamic law. Attempts to achieve contestation and inclusion in the government have been relatively successful. However, Gambia still must face the challenges of widespread poverty, illiteracy and poor health care. While facing a major debt burden, Gambia’s economy lies dependent upon the agricultural sector. Yet, less than half of the arable land in Gambia is cultivated and production is often inefficient. Additionally, high levels of unemployment manifest the destitution of the population, a third of which falls below the international poverty line. Gambia is also affected by the occurrence of smuggling, trafficking and various conflicts amongst nations along Africa’s west coast. Almost completely surround by Senegal, tensions even still persist between the two nations that once formed Senegambia. Still, there is hope that with leadership and the maintenance of relationships with international organizations, conditions in Gambia will continue to improve.