Christianity is a minority religion in The Gambia, practiced by approximately 3.5% to 4.5% of the population. While the country is over 95% Muslim, it is constitutionally a secular state where religious freedom is protected.
Denominations and Demographics
- Roman Catholicism: The largest Christian denomination, making up about 70% of the Christian population. The Diocese of Banjul, established in 1957, serves the entire country.
- Protestantism: Includes historic groups like Anglicans (Diocese of Gambia and the Rio Pongas), Methodists, and Baptists.
- Charismatic/Evangelical: There is a growing presence of newer evangelical and charismatic churches, particularly in the Greater Banjul area.
- Ethnic Distribution: Christianity is most prevalent among the Aku (80.1%) and Manjago (78.9%) ethnic groups. The Jola also have a notable Christian minority (8.4%).
History and Education
- Origins: Modern Christianity was introduced in the 15th century by Portuguese traders, but it did not take permanent root until the early 19th century when freed slaves (Akus) settled in Banjul.
- Social Impact: Christian missions were instrumental in establishing The Gambia’s health and education sectors. Many of the country’s top schools remain Christian-run and educate both Muslims and Christians.
Inter-Religious Relations
- Tolerance: The Gambia is known for high levels of religious tolerance. Intermarriage between Muslims and Christians is common, and it is standard for members of both faiths to attend each other’s weddings and funerals.
- Governance: The Gambia Christian Council (founded in 1965) represents the interests of the mainline churches and collaborates with the Supreme Islamic Council on national issues.
- Recent Challenges: Despite a history of peace, some church leaders have raised concerns about “subtle” persecution or discrimination in job hiring, as well as occasional extremist rhetoric from visiting imams. There was also significant pushback from the Christian community when former President Yahya Jammeh declared the country an Islamic State in 2015.
Links for further overview of The Gambia:
Stichting HEALING THE NATIONS 