Which ethnic groups live in The Gambia?

The Gambia is home to several distinct ethnic groups that have long maintained their individual cultural traditions. The major ethnic groups include:1

• Malinke: The largest ethnic group, comprising approximately one-third of the population.23
• Wolof: A prominent group that is particularly dominant in the capital, Banjul.23
• Fulani: Historically settled in the extreme upriver areas of the country.23
• Diola (Jola): Considered the people longest resident in the country, they are primarily located in western Gambia.23
• Soninke: An admixture of Malinke and Fulani, this group is also concentrated in the upriver regions.23

These groups have historically been shaped by migrations resulting from western Sudanic wars dating back to the 12th century. While each group maintains its own heritage, the country shares many cultural and culinary similarities with neighboring Senegal.231