The Gambia River flows approximately 1,100 kilometers (700 miles) from the Fouta Djallon highlands of northern Guinea through southeastern Senegal and The Gambia into the Atlantic Ocean.
It is one of the largest rivers in West Africa and is composed of two distinct habitat types: estuary at the mouth and freshwater further upstream. Each of these supports a collection of flooded areas, swamps, mudflats, and riverine forests.
The river supports nearly 111,000 acres (45,000 hectares) of mangrove swamp dominated by trees such as Avicennia africana, Sesuvium portulacastrum, and Rhizophora spp. These coastal forests thrive in brackish waters; they provide storm and erosion protection for coastal communities, as well as timber resources.
Clumps of small trees and shrubs, tall grass, and wild oil palm trees also grow near the river. This vegetation provides an excellent habitat for animals, birds, and insects.
The river supports a range of economic activities from agriculture to fishing, hunting, and transportation. It also shows promise for potential hydroelectric power. The River Gambia has been and continues to be the main source of irrigation for communities in rural areas, allowing for enhanced food production.
The Gambia River
