February 18: Independence Day in The Gambia
Prayer Idea
Pray for the government and people of The Gambia.
History Note
The Gambia is a country in western Africa that lies along the Gambia River. The country of Senegal completely surrounds The Gambia, except for its western edge on the Atlantic Ocean.
It has a population of two and a half million, with over half being under age 25. A large majority of the people are Muslim, with a relatively small number of Christians.
The Gambia was a colony of the United Kingdom until 1965. On February 18 of that year, the country officially gained its independence and became part of the Commonwealth.
Isatou Ceesay was born in The Gambia in 1972. As a young woman, she recognized a problem with trash disposal in her country and decided to do something about it. Ceesay worked to establish a recycling center where other women in her community can work and earn a living. The women use plastic bags and other items that people have thrown away to make new and beautiful items to sell, such as purses, shoes, toys, and jewelry. Ceesay has become known as the Queen of Recycling.
Fishing boats in the village of Tanji, The Gambia. Photo by Curioso. Photography / Shutterstock.com.
Learn More
This video shows footage of ceremonies celebrating the independence of The Gambia in February 1965.
Find out more about The Gambia at Homeschool History.
