The Gambia is the smallest mainland country in Africa and despite a flourishing tourist industry, it remains one of the world’s poorest countries. Just one sixth of the country’s land is arable, and approximately 75% of the population depends on crops and livestock for its livelihood.

Although The Gambia has enjoyed long spells of stability since independence in 1965, this stability has not yet translated into prosperity for the majority of its people.

The YMCA has been present in The Gambia since 1979, and Y Care International has been in partnership with the country’s National Council of YMCAs since 1984.