Brikama, The Gambia

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Brikama, The Gambia

Region: West Coast Region

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Geographic Coordinates: 13.266700, -16.650000

Climate: Hot and dry during the winter months (November to May) and rainy during the summer months (June to October).

Population: 195136

Language: Mandinka

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Brikama is a lively town situated in the West Coast Region of The Gambia. It is renowned for its bustling market, Cultural festivals, And historical sites. With a population of over 100, 000 people from various ethnic groups such as Mandinka, Fula, Wolof, And Jola. The famous market in Brikama is one of the main attractions that draws visitors from all over The Gambia. Here you can find an array of goods ranging from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts like baskets and clothing made using local fabrics.

Additionally, Traditional medicines made from herbs with healing properties are also available. The annual Kankurang festival held during May celebrates Gambian culture with colorful costumes worn by dancers who perform to music played by local artists. Visitors can witness traditional ceremonies such as circumcision rites for young boys during this festival. For history enthusiasts, Brikama has several landmarks that tell stories about its past including Fort Bullen built by British colonialists in the 19th century to protect their interests in The Gambia and Kachikally Crocodile Pool believed to have mystical powers used for centuries by locals.

Brikama’s natural scenery is breathtaking with lush green forests surrounding it on all sides where visitors can take nature walks or go bird watching spotting different species like hornbills or eagles soaring above them. but not least important are Brikama’s friendly people who welcome visitors with warm smiles typical of Gambians across the country making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore The Gambia’s culture and history.

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1. Kachikally Crocodile Pool
2. Makasutu Cultural Forest
3. Brikama Craft Market
4. Tanji Fishing Village
5. Abuko Nature Reserve
6. Bijilo Forest Park
7. Lamin Lodge
8. Gunjur Beach
9. Sanyang Beach
10. Senegambia Craft Market

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Major Industries and Businesses in Brikama, The Gambia

1. Agriculture
   • Farming
   • Animal husbandry
   • Fishing
2. Small-scale manufacturing industries
   • Textiles
   • Pottery
   • Handicrafts
3. Marketplace
   • Foodstuffs
   • Clothing
   • Electronics
   • Household items
4. Education
   • Primary schools
   • Secondary schools
   • Vocational training centers
5. Tourism
   • Kachikally Crocodile Pool
   • Tanji Fishing Village
6. Healthcare services
   • Health clinics
   • Hospitals
7. Construction activities
   • Building new homes
   • Building roads
   • Building bridges
8. Transportation system
   • Buses plying different routes within the town
   • Buses to other parts of The Gambia’s capital city Banjul

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1. Brikama was founded in the 14th century by a group of Mandinka people.
2. In the 19th century, Brikama became an important center for Islamic scholarship and education.
3. One of the most notable figures associated with Brikama is Alhaji Bai Konte, a renowned musician and kora player who popularized Gambian music around the world.
4. Another notable figure from Brikama is Mama Kandeh, a politician who founded the Gambia Democratic Congress political party.
5. In 2009, President Barack Obama visited Brikama as part of his trip to Africa.
6. The town has also been affected by various conflicts throughout history, including tribal wars in the early 20th century and political unrest during The Gambia’s transition to democracy in recent years.

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1. Brikama Woodcarving Center is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can witness the traditional art of woodcarving and purchase handmade souvenirs.
2. Tanje Village Museum is a cultural museum that showcases the history, traditions, and customs of The Gambia.
3. Makasutu Cultural Forest is an eco-tourism destination with diverse flora and fauna, offering visitors a chance to experience local culture through music, dance, and food.
4. Kachikally Crocodile Pool is a sacred site where visitors can see crocodiles up close and learn about their cultural significance in Gambian folklore.
5. Brikama Market is one of the largest markets in The Gambia, offering an array of goods including textiles, jewelry, crafts, fruits and vegetables.
6. Sanyang Beach is a beautiful beach located just outside Brikama with pristine white sand and crystal clear water perfect for swimming or relaxing in the sun.
7. Abuko Nature Reserve is home to over 270 bird species as well as monkeys, baboons and other wildlife species that roam freely within its boundaries.
8. Arch 22 Monument is a prominent monument in Banjul commemorating The Gambia’s independence from Britain in 1965 with stunning views over the city skyline from its top floor observation deck.

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1. Brikama United Football Club is a highly popular sports team in Brikama, founded in 1979. The club has achieved remarkable success over the years and has won numerous domestic titles, including the Gambian Cup and Super Cup.
2. Apart from Brikama United Football Club, another notable sports team from Brikama is the Brikama Athletics Association. This association primarily focuses on track and field events and has produced several talented athletes who have represented The Gambia at international competitions.
3. In addition to these teams, there are also several youth football teams and community-based sports clubs operating in Brikama. These teams offer young people opportunities to develop their skills and participate in organized sporting activities.

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1. Brikama Day Festival is an annual celebration of the diverse cultures in Brikama, held on the first Saturday in February.
2. Kankurang Festival is a traditional masquerade festival that takes place in Brikama during June and July.
3. Ramadan is observed by many residents of Brikama with special prayers and events throughout the month-long Islamic fasting period.
4. Tobaski (Eid al-Adha) is a Muslim holiday celebrated with feasting, prayer, and gift-giving throughout The Gambia, including in Brikama.
5. Independence Day on February 18th each year sees Gambians celebrating their freedom from British colonial rule through parades and festivities.
6. Roots Homecoming Festival celebrates The Gambia’s African diaspora communities’ cultural heritage annually in May or June.
7. International Roots Festival brings together people from all over the world biennially to celebrate African culture through music, dance, art exhibitions and more.

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• Domoda: A traditional Gambian dish made with groundnuts and served with rice.
• Benachin: A one-pot rice dish that includes vegetables, meat or fish, and spices.
• Yassa: A spicy chicken or fish dish marinated in lemon juice and onions.
• Mbahal: A soup made with smoked fish or meat, okra, tomatoes, and other vegetables.
• Tapalapa bread: A type of bread commonly eaten with meals in The Gambia.

Some popular restaurants in Brikama are:

• Kunta Kinte Restaurant & Bar
• Jokor West African Cuisine
• Maimuna’s Kitchen
• SeneGambian Beach Restaurant
• Mama Africa Restaurant & Bar

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Parks and Recreation

1. Brikama Forest Park is a popular destination for picnics, hiking and birdwatching.
2. Brikama Botanical Garden is a tranquil space that showcases various plant species.
3. Lamin Lodge, situated on the River Gambia, offers boat trips, fishing and birdwatching opportunities.
4. Sanyang Beach boasts crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
5. Tanji Fish Market sells fresh seafood caught by local fishermen as well as traditional Gambian crafts.
6. Abuko Nature Reserve houses diverse wildlife including monkeys, crocodiles and birds.
7. Bijilo Forest Park features several walking trails that offer views of the forest canopy and wildlife sightings.
8. Kachikally Crocodile Pool is a sacred site where visitors can watch crocodiles being fed or take part in traditional rituals.
9. Kartong Bird Observatory provides an opportunity to observe migratory birds during their annual journeys through West Africa.
10. Tujereng Beach Eco-Resort & Community Project offers eco-tourism activities such as birdwatching, hiking or cultural tours while supporting local community development projects in Tujereng village near Brikama.

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Travel And Be Free.

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