WE BELIEVE IN CHANGE

First, a few statistics…

Gambia is Africa is smallest country with a population of 2,429,312, as of Monday 10th August 2020, based on the worldometer United Nations.

In a 2015 survey it was found almost 50% of the population lived in poverty. In rural  areas poverty is even more widespread at almost 70% of the population.
The population is mainly young with more than more than half (about 63.55%) being below 25 years of age.

Elderly persons of 65 years and above account for 2.8% of the population. This may work in their favour with regards to the Coronavirus pandemic, as it has been found in the UK and Europe to most likely affect people over the age of 65.

The 0-14 years old age bracket make up 43.9% of the population – again another good factor with Covid-19, as it has been found to be unusual for any children of this age group in the UK and Europe to catch the virus.

Overall, 53.4% of the population are aged between 15-64.

Presently more than half the population live in urban areas. With a land area of 11,000 square kilometres The Gambia is one of the most densely populated countries in Africa. This could have some negative implications because of close proximity and the difficulties of social distancing. About 55% of the population currently live in Banjul, Kanifing and the Brikama local government areas.

The Gambian Economy

The Gambian economy is dominated by farming, fishing and especially tourism. It is known for its beautiful beaches along its small Atlantic coastline. Tourism has been hit badly by the Covid-19 virus, as airports and businesses have been closed for several months, since the initial outbreak was announced in March of this year.

The latest figures show that there are currently 799 cases of the virus within The Gambia. This is relatively low, due to measures being put Into place promptly at the beginning of the crisis. The airport was closed and flights to and from the country were severely restricted. Mosques were also closed, as well as schools.

Unfortunately this has made it difficult for people to make a living, during this difficult time. Businesses are closed and there is very little tourism currently.

EVERY MOMENT COUNTS

The plight of the people

The hospitals, in particular are very short of essential equipment. We are currently running a gofundme page (click here) to raise money to buy an ambulance and a JustGiving page (click here) to to raise money to provide at least one oxygen concentrator to the hospital, or possibly more.

This week we are happy to announce that another container of medical equipment that we have collected, will be setting off to The Gambia on the 14th August, destination Bwiam hospital.

Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the one who receives them, and they bless you, the giver.

Pictures, photos and videos of the equipment being delivered to the hospital will be posted on our website when the equipment arrives at its destination.

Please continue to follow, share our website updates and continue to like and share our Facebook and other social media updates, and of course please donate money and equipment whenever possible.

Many thanks
Shirley Bojang
Chairperson