Gambia River facts for kids
The Gambia River is a very important river in West Africa. It used to be called the River Gambra. This river is about 1,120 kilometers (700 miles) long. It starts in the Fouta Djallon mountains in northern Guinea. From there, it flows west through Senegal and the country of the Gambia. Finally, it reaches the Atlantic Ocean near the city of Banjul. About half of the river's length is deep enough for boats to travel on.
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Where Does the Gambia River Flow?
The Gambia River is very important to the country of The Gambia. This is the smallest country in mainland Africa. It is mostly made up of the lower half of the river and the land along its sides.
The river begins in the Fouta Djallon area. It then flows northwest into the Tambacounda Region of Senegal. Here, it passes through the Parc National du Niokolo Koba, which is a national park. Other rivers, like the Nieri Ko and Koulountou, join it.
The Gambia River then enters the country of The Gambia near a place called Fatoto. From this point, the river generally flows west. It winds and turns a lot, creating many bends. About 100 kilometers (62 miles) from where it meets the sea, the river starts to get much wider. At its mouth, it can be over 10 kilometers (6 miles) wide.
What Is Kunta Kinteh Island?
Near the mouth of the river, close to a town called Juffure, is Kunta Kinteh Island. This island was once a sad place used during the slave trade. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means it is a special place recognized for its global importance.
What Animals Live in the River?
The animals living in the Gambia River are similar to those found in the Sénégal River. These two river areas are often grouped together. Many different kinds of animals live here. However, only a few types of frogs and one kind of fish are found only in this area.
How Is the River Used?
People living near the river harvest oysters from it. These oysters are used to make oyster stew. This is a traditional and tasty dish in the local food of The Gambia.
The Gambia River is also a very important way to transport goods. Large ships can travel up the river for about 248 kilometers (154 miles). They can reach a settlement called Kuntaur. Smaller boats can go even further, reaching Fatoto, which is about 447 kilometers (278 miles) from the river's mouth.
Images for kids
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Map of the River Gambra (now the Gambia) 1732
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The western part of the Gambia River, seen from space. The line shows the border of The Gambia.
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Upstream view of the river, near Janjanbureh Island
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Bank of the river, near Janjanbureh
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Ferry crossing of the river, at Janjanbureh
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See also
In Spanish: Río Gambia para niños
