The Gambia is home to some of the world's rarest animals. Many species have already been lost e.g. African Elephant, Giraffe and Lion. Research, practical measures and the support of Gambian communities are urgently required if we are to save some of the remaining, globally-vital populations.

In spite of everyone's efforts, The Gambia remains one of the poorest countries in the world. Tourism offers a key source of income and is growing rapidly. However, most tourism is limited to the coast and this "wealth" never reaches the poorer areas. Although spectacular wildlife can be found almost anywhere in The Gambia, the rarest species are often in the poor, remote areas. We want to encourage communities to conserve their wildlife and gain from it by attracting tourists. In the longer term, we would also like to re-introduce large, charismatic species to encourage eco-tourism that can relieve poverty and deprivation in rural areas.

The habitats in The Gambia are also vital for the survival of birds from Europe (83 species from Europe regularly occur). Many Millions are spent in the EU conserving breeding habitats, but little is done to look after vital wintering grounds in Africa. Looking after habitats for Gambian wildlife will also help populations of European birds

If you care about the wildlife and people of The Gambia, please help us to help them.

Saidou Jammeh - Project Gambia recently bought Saidou wood to build a new boat. This will allow him to feed his extended family and to help us research Manateeswith him around Ginak island.

The Gambia
The friendly nature of the people and their happy disposition has led to The Gambia being affectionately referred to as "The Smiling Coast". For the visitor, the combination of warm, dry, winter weather, friendly reception and strength of western currencies have led to The Gambia's tourism business growing rapidly. Almost all tourism is based on the coast with little of the wealth generated spreading further inland. Transport links are slowly improving, leading to more people venturing upriver especially birdwatchers and naturalists.

The development of tourism is vital for the country and with over 100,000 visitors a year, now accounts for 7.8% of GDP. The opportunities for tourists are limited and while those simply seeking beautiful weather, people and beaches will be more than satisfied, there are few other options especially important for repeat visitors. That said, the country clearly is highly attractive to repeat visitors, with an enviable 44% of all tourist arrivals involving people who have been before.

The development of additional eco-tourist resources has the potential to increase the attraction of The Gambia to foreign tourists. It also has the potential to spread some of the tourism income away from the coastal areas to the areas where it is desperately needed.