Safety, Ethnic Groups, FGM, and Accommodations in my village in the Gambia

by Isatou Touray

1. No, my village is not entirely safe for white tourists if they are not careful. While many people are friendly, there have been occasional cases of theft, especially if someone looks like a stranger or is seen as wealthy. It is not a violent place, but you cannot assume everywhere is safe, especially at night or if walking alone. Some young boys can also be aggressive in asking tourists for money or gifts.

2. What ethnic groups are in your village?

Kantora is quite mixed. The main ethnic groups here are Fula (Pulaar), Mandinka, and Wolof, but you can also find Serahule and Jola. We live together peacefully, marry across tribes, and share traditions. Most people speak several local languages, but Mandinka and Pulaar are the most common in everyday conversation.

3. Yes, unfortunately FGM is still practiced in Brikama Ba, especially among some of the older generation and in more traditional families. It is less common now than before, especially among younger, educated families, but it still happens. Many people are afraid to speak against it openly because it is tied to culture and identity.   

4. What do you think is the best way to combat FGM in Gambia, and particularly in your village? Are there people you know who would help us do that?
I believe the best way is education, especially for girls and parents. When people understand the health risks and emotional pain FGM causes, they start to question it. Religious leaders also need to speak out clearly, because many still believe it is required in Islam, which it is not.

In my village, the women’s groups, some teachers, and a few health workers would help. I can think of some brave women and even some men who are quietly against FGM. If they had support, they would speak louder. But it must be done with respect for culture – not by shaming, but by offering knowledge and alternatives.

5. No, there is not a hotel or comfortable place to stay right in Brikama Ba. We don’t have guesthouses like the towns do. Tourists cannot expect the same services here as in Banjul or Brikama. If you come here, you might need to stay with a family, and that means no running water or electricity in some homes. So no, it is not a tourist-ready village with accommodation.