This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
If you’ve ever looked at a map of Africa and wondered why The Gambia looks like a thin snake slithering through Senegal, you’re not alone. The Gambia is one of the most unusually shaped countries in the world — a narrow strip of land following the path of the Gambia River for about 480 km (300 miles) into the heart of Senegal. But why is it shaped this way? The answer lies in colonial history — and that shape continues to define The Gambia’s political and economic landscape today.
A Colonial Legacy Written in Geography
The Gambia’s odd shape is a direct consequence of European colonialism. During the 19th century, as European powers scrambled to carve up Africa, the British and the French were locked in competition for control over West Africa.
The Gambia River was a key strategic route for trade, including the transatlantic slave trade. The British established a colony along the river as early as 1661, using it as a base for trade and naval operations. But by the late 19th century, France had taken control of much of the surrounding territory — present-day Senegal.
To avoid direct conflict, the British and French signed the Anglo-French Convention of 1889. This treaty defined The Gambia’s borders by following the course of the river inland and setting the width at approximately 10 miles (16 km) on either side. This narrow strip became British-controlled territory, surrounded entirely by French-controlled Senegal.
The result was a long, slender country that hugs the Gambia River, creating logistical and political challenges that persist to this day.
A Country Divided by a River
The Gambia River isn’t just a defining feature of the country’s geography — it also divides the country socially and economically. The river splits The Gambia into two halves, making transportation and infrastructure development difficult. Until recently, ferry crossings were the main way to travel between the north and south banks — a slow and sometimes unreliable process.
The opening of the Senegambia Bridge in 2019 was a game-changer, improving connectivity between the two sides of the river and strengthening economic ties with Senegal. Still, the river’s influence shapes daily life, from agriculture to trade and transportation.
Administrative Divisions of The Gambia
The Gambia is divided into five regions plus the capital city of Banjul. These divisions reflect the country’s colonial past and the river’s natural barrier. Each region has its own administrative center:
Region
Capital City
West Coast
Brikama
North Bank
Kerewan
Lower River
Mansa Konko
Central River
Janjanbureh
Upper River
Basse Santa Su
Capital City
Banjul
The map below, created by Country Report, illustrates the administrative divisions of The Gambia and their regional capitals.
Banjul, located at the mouth of the river, is the political and administrative heart of the country. However, the Greater Banjul Area — which includes nearby urban centers like Kanifing and Serrekunda — is the country’s economic hub, with a population exceeding 400,000. Most of the country’s infrastructure and economic activity are concentrated in this area.
An Economy Shaped by Geography
The Gambia’s unusual shape and small size (only 11,295 km² or 4,361 square miles) create economic limitations. It is the smallest country on mainland Africa, which restricts the availability of natural resources and land for agriculture and development.
Despite these challenges, agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, employing about 75% of the labor force and contributing approximately 20% of the country’s GDP. The main crops include:
Peanuts (groundnuts) – The country’s primary export.
Rice – A staple food, though production struggles to meet domestic demand.
Millet and maize – Grown mainly for local consumption.
Tourism also plays a key role in The Gambia’s economy, especially along the Atlantic coast. The country’s beaches, wildlife, and bird-watching opportunities attract visitors from Europe and beyond.
Fishing along the river and coastlines is another important sector, although overfishing and environmental changes pose growing threats.
Challenges of Being a Narrow, River-Based Nation
The Gambia’s shape creates structural challenges for development:
Dependence on Senegal – Since The Gambia is surrounded on all sides by Senegal (except for the Atlantic coast), it relies heavily on Senegal for trade and transit. Any political or economic tension with Senegal could quickly disrupt The Gambia’s supply chains.
Limited Infrastructure – Poor roads and limited railways make transportation difficult, especially in rural areas.
Environmental Pressures – The Gambia River’s mangroves and wetlands provide a habitat for over 500 species of birds, as well as monkeys, crocodiles, and hippos. However, deforestation, overfishing, and pollution threaten these delicate ecosystems.
Climate Change – Rising sea levels and increased flooding threaten low-lying areas along the river and coast.
Political Instability – After over two decades of authoritarian rule under Yahya Jammeh (1994–2017), the country is still working to build democratic institutions and attract foreign investment.
The combination of limited land, environmental pressures, and political uncertainty makes long-term economic growth challenging.
Final Thoughts
The Gambia’s odd shape isn’t just a geographic curiosity — it’s a colonial legacy that continues to shape the country’s political and economic reality.Despite its dependence on Senegal, environmental challenges, and limited land, The Gambia possesses natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and a strategic location that provide potential for growth.
What do you think about The Gambia’s unique shape and its impact on the country’s development? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
