The Gambia

The Gambia is the smallest country in mainland Africa, and it is entirely surrounded by Senegal except for its coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. It gained its independence from the UK in 1965, but English remains the official language there. Interesting fact: The Gambia is one of only two countries whose self-standing short name for official use should begin with the word “The” (the other one being The Bahamas).

Gambia postcard

Gambia stamps

I recently learned about The Banjul Challenge, where participants starting in Europe on an ordinary road cars which are mostly at the end of their useful lifetimes, and drive through European countries, then through Morocco, Western Sahara, Mauritania, Senegal and finally into the Gambia. Once the cars make it to Banjul in Gambia they are auctioned for, or donated to, charity. Sounds fun! 🙂