PEOPLE
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, followed by the Fula, Wolof,
Jola, and Serahule. Approximately 3,500 non-Africans live in The
Gambia, including Europeans and families of Lebanese origin.
Muslims constitute more than 90% of the population. Christians of different denominations account for most of 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. Provisional figures from the 2003 census show that
the gap between the urban and rural populations is narrowing as
more areas are declared urban. While urban migration, development
projects, and modernization 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.
Nationality: Noun and adjective--Gambian(s).
Population (2008): 1.7 million.
Annual growth rate (2008 est.): 2.724%.
Ethnic groups (2003 census): Mandinka 42%, Fula 18%, Wolof 16%, Jola 10%, Sarahule 9%, Serere 7.8%, Krio/Aku Marabout 1.8%, Manjago 0.8%, Bambara 0.7%, other Gambians 1.2%, no declaration 0.3%.
Non-Gambians 12.9% of the population.
Religions: Muslim 90%, Christian 8%, other 2%.
Languages: English (official), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, Jola, Sarahule, other indigenous languages.
Education: Years compulsory--up to age eight. Attendance--69% primary, 35% secondary. Adult literacy--37.8%.
Health: Life expectancy--57 yrs (2005 est.). Infant mortality rate (2005)--97/1,000. Access to safe drinking water (2004)--urban 95%, rural 77%.
Work force (400,000): Agriculture--70%; industry, commerce, services--24%; government--6%.
