Looking for a vibrant and affordable place to call home in the Gambia? Then Banjul is the place for you! This bustling city on the coast of West Africa has a rich history, a diverse culture and a warm and welcoming community.
From the bustling markets to the stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone in Banjul. In this article, we’ll explore why Banjul is the best place to live in Gambia and why you should consider making it your new home.
Location and Geography
Banjul, the capital of Gambia, is located on picturesque St Mary’s Island at the mouth of the Gambia River. This beautiful city’s rich history and unique geography make it a fascinating place to live or visit.
The city is surrounded by water on three sides: the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Gambia River to the north and south. The city’s strategic location has made it an important regional trading centre.
Banjul is also known for its natural beauty. The city has several parks and nature reserves, including Abuko Nature Reserve and Kiang West National Park. They’re home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The Gambia River also offers opportunities for water activities such as fishing, boating and kayaking.
Climate and Weather
Banjul has a tropical climate with distinct rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season is characterised by frequent heavy rains, thunderstorms and high humidity from June to October. On the other hand, the dry season from November to May is sunny and warm, with low humidity and a refreshing sea breeze. During this time you can enjoy the beautiful beaches of the city.
The temperature in Banjul remains relatively constant throughout the year. The average highs are between 28 and 33 degrees Celsius.
Housing and Real Estate
Banjul offers various housing options for those interested in either renting or buying. Rental prices depend on factors such as property location, size, and amenities, but they tend to be more affordable than other cities in the region.
Property prices vary depending on size and location for those looking to buy a home but are generally affordable. Although buying a house requires a higher initial investment than renting, it can be more cost-effective in the long run as there are no monthly rental payments.
Education and Healthcare
The Gambian Ministry of Basic & Secondary Education oversees both public and private primary and secondary schools in Banjul. This city has made great strides in education and health services in recent years. The government is working to improve the quality of education, and many schools have improved resources, infrastructure and teacher training.
The University of The Gambia was opened in 1999 and provided higher education opportunities for Gambian students. It has contributed significantly to the intellectual and economic development of the country.
The government has also invested significantly in the health sector over the last decade, especially in the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital. The hospital has been upgraded with modern equipment and facilities. Due to this, the number of trained medical professionals in the city has also increased.
Non-governmental organisations and international aid programmes have also provided additional support for education and health services in Banjul. This has further improved access and quality of services in the city.
Employment and Economy
The economy of Banjul is quite diverse, with several industries contributing to the city’s growth and development. Banjul’s main industry is agriculture, focusing on peanut production. Peanuts significantly contribute to the Gambian economy, and Banjul plays a crucial role in the country’s peanut trade.
In recent years, the manufacturing industry in Banjul has seen significant growth, with factories producing a range of goods such as textiles, food products, and building materials. Furthermore, the city’s location on the Gambia River makes it a crucial transportation hub, providing opportunities in logistics and distribution.
While the job market in Banjul can be quite competitive, there are several opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers. The city’s growing industries and diverse economy offer various employment options, from agricultural and manufacturing jobs to service-oriented positions in tourism and small businesses.
Safety and Security
The Gambian government and local authorities have made considerable efforts to improve security in Banjul in recent years. As a result, the crime rate in the city has decreased significantly.
In 2019, the Gambia Police reported a 26% decrease in crime nationwide compared to the previous year. This included both violent and property crimes. Banjul’s crime rate dropped by 22% from 2018 to 2019.
The government and local authorities have taken various measures to ensure security in Banjul. These include increasing police presence and patrols in high-crime areas, improving street lighting and installing CCTV cameras in key locations. The government has also established a National Security Council to coordinate security measures nationwide.
In addition to these measures, the government relies on community policing, i.e. working with local communities to prevent crime and address security issues. This approach has helped to build trust between law enforcement and residents and reduce the overall crime rate.
Cost of Living in Banjul
The cost of living in Banjul is relatively low compared to other cities in the region, making it an attractive destination for you to live in. One-bedroom apartments in the city centre cost between US $32 and US $160 monthly.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost as little as $2. Taxis are widely available and relatively cheap, with a normal ride within the city centre costing around $1 to $2. Healthcare in Banjul is also affordable, with basic medical services available at public hospitals and clinics for a small fee.
Here is an overview of the cost of living in the capital city of Gambia.
|
Activity |
Average Cost (USD) | Average Cost (Pounds) |
|
Rent (1 bedroom) |
$96 per month | £78 per month |
|
Utilities |
$43 per month |
£35 per month |
|
Meal |
$2 per meal |
£1.5 per meal |
|
Healthcare |
$30 per month |
£24 per month |
|
Transportation |
$2 per ride |
£1.5 per ride |
|
Childcare |
$25 per month |
£20 per month |
| Fitness | $25 per month |
£20 per month |
Instead of paying rent every month, buying a house in Banjul can be a good long-term investment. Although property prices in Banjul can vary depending on location and size, they’re generally affordable compared to other cities in the region.
If you’re considering buy house in gambia Banjul, Swami India International is the company for you. Our company offers quality houses and construction services at affordable prices. You can contact us, and we’ll help you find your dream home in the city.
Conclusion
Banjul is a vibrant and affordable city that offers its residents a high quality of life. With its low cost of living, diverse economy and increasing security, Banjul is the best place to live in The Gambia. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy a home, Banjul offers a range of affordable housing options to suit your needs.
If you’re looking for your dream home in Banjul, get in touch with Swami India International today! We offer quality homes and construction services at affordable prices.
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