Tourism is one of the most vibrant sectors of The Gambia’s economy. It’s an understatement to say it is crucial to the economic evolution of the country.
Since its inception, it has contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of the country. Its impact is multifaceted and touches many lives in the country.

The presence of large numbers of tourists in the country is a testimony to this.

Amazingly, the industry is growing both in nature and in structure as the country continues to attract more tourists with each passing year. This consistency could be due to the beauty of the country - both natural and artificial. The peaceful co-existence and the exemplary political commitment attached to the sector is also a contributing factor.

According to the statistics, about 90,000 tourists visit The Gambia annually. This represents one of the biggest inflows of visitors - mainly from Europe - in the sub-region.

As a result, the industry has generated employment for many Gambians, especially the youth. About 11,000 people are employed directly by the sector and another 15,000 indirectly. In total, it creates about 26,000 jobs in the country.

The sector fetches the largest foreign exchange for the country and constitutes 12 per cent of our Gross Domestic Product. Owing to its dynamics and the attractions the country offers, more hotels and other tourism infrastructure have been built.

The recent arrivals, marking the beginning of the tourist season, are indeed promising and raise hopes higher. Gambians love visitors and are one of the most welcoming and friendly worldwide. They are renowned for their hospitality. Tourists can therefore, be assured of their most memorable holidays ever on the shores of the country.

However, attention must be drawn to disheartening elements, who pose a threat to the sector at the expense of national interest. The sector is yet to be completely rid of the bumster syndrome.

Over the years, many tourists have complained about what they called harassment at the hands of bumsters. These acts discourage more visits and run against the spirit of our highly acclaimed hospitality and peacefulness.

Therefore, the need for well-organised and sustained actions to curb these abnormalities is necessary and urgent. The security services and concerned Gambians, especially have to be more vigilant and work towards ensuring a protective environment for our guests. A threat to tourism in The Gambia is a threat to the country’s economic survival and the 26,000 job opportunities that it creates.

To our guests, we say welcome to the Smiling Coast of Africa.