Communication in Gambia

Communication systems in The Gambia are fragmented rather than controlled by one national service. Face-to-face conversations, family and neighbourhood networks, community groups and religious networks remain highly relevant. English is used in government, education and formal written communication. Mandinka, Fula, Wolof, Jola, Sarahulleh and other languages are used in daily life, with language choice depending on region, community and education. When a misunderstanding occurs, speaking slowly, repeating the message in simpler words or using a trusted local-language interpreter can help. Mobile communication is widely used through calls, SMS and mobile data. The four mobile network providers are Gamcel, QCell, Africell and Comium. The country also has a fixed-line and ECOWAN backbone and eight internet service providers listed in the 2023 report of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, known as PURA. The country calling code is +220. A 2026 change from seven-digit to nine-digit mobile numbers requires users to check current instructions from their provider before saving or replacing numbers. The International Telecommunication Union recorded 126 mobile subscriptions per 100 people in 2024, about 2.5 million active mobile-broadband subscriptions, internet use of 49.5% and internet access in 49.1% of households. These figures do not mean that every person has reliable access: coverage, speed, electricity, device availability and prices differ between urban and rural areas. A valid identity document is required for SIM registration, and current provider requirements should be confirmed when buying or replacing a SIM card. Mobile data, voice calls, SMS, WhatsApp, email and web services are the main digital channels. The Gambia Information and Communications Technology Agency, or GICTA, supports information and communication technology and e-government architecture. The Universal Access and Service Programme, or UASP, addresses availability, affordability, quality, digital literacy, public access points and inclusion of women, young people and people with disabilities. These measures do not remove local differences in coverage or cost. GAMPOST is the national postal corporation and has operated autonomously since 2006. Its services include EMS with worldwide tracking, airmail, registered mail and parcels, post office boxes, private mail bags and Post Money Transfer. Branches operate across the country, but prices, opening hours and delivery times depend on the service, destination and branch. A sender should keep the receipt and tracking information when a document or parcel needs proof of dispatch. Authorities generally communicate in English through counters, telephone, email and websites; some also use social media or WhatsApp. The Information Commission handles access-to-information matters under the Access to Information Act 2021, including information requests and complaints. A request about a specialised procedure should go to the authority responsible for that procedure rather than to a general communication body. PURA regulates telecommunications and other utilities, monitors tariffs and quality of service, and handles consumer complaints. It does not provide mobile or internet services. For a billing error, poor service quality, an unjustified disconnection, a delayed connection or an unanswered complaint, contact the provider first, keep bills and correspondence, and then contact PURA if the issue remains unresolved; its toll-free number is 148. PURA is not the correct escalation body for banks, immigration matters or other services outside its regulatory authority. Emergency communication should state the location and the type of emergency clearly. The numbers are 116 for ambulance, 117 for police, 118 for fire and rescue, 1199 for the Red Cross, 1030 for tourist services and 1313 for gender-based violence. A call may fail where network coverage is weak, so another available provider, a nearby person or an in-person report may be needed. The Persons with Disabilities Act 2021 supports access to public services. Depending on the institution and provider, accessible communication may include sign-language interpretation, Braille, audio or synthesised speech, accessible document formats, special telephone devices for people with hearing impairments and tactile marks for people with visual impairments. Availability should be confirmed with the relevant authority or provider because practical arrangements differ. Do not share PINs, one-time passwords or other sensitive information through an unverified link or unsolicited call. The Data Protection and Privacy Policy and Strategy provide a policy framework, while the legal status of a comprehensive data-protection bill requires separate confirmation. The Cybersecurity Directorate at the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy supports policy and governance. For suspected fraud, preserve messages, numbers, receipts and screenshots, then contact the provider, police or responsible authority. Most communication problems arise from language differences, weak network quality, unexpected charges, identity checks or uncertainty about which institution is responsible. A written confirmation can reduce disputes after a phone conversation. Prices, opening hours, delivery times, coverage and current emergency or provider instructions should be checked immediately before use because they vary by service and location.