The “Survey of Ethnicity and Tribalism in The Gambia” aimed to investigate the extent and impact of ethnic identity and tribalism in Gambian society. The survey was conducted across all Local Government Areas of The Gambia and collected responses from a diverse sample of individuals representing various ethnic, gender and age groups.
The findings of the survey underscore the significant role of ethnicity and tribalism in Gambian society. A majority of respondents acknowledged the existence of tribalism and recognized the need for solutions, given its detrimental effects on community living and political relations. Notably, 34.32% and 28.37% of respondents attributed blame to politicians and individuals, respectively, for the prevalence of tribalism in The Gambia.
Moreover, the survey highlighted the adverse impact of tribalism on national unity and development. A striking 94.25% of respondents expressed the belief that tribalism impedes national progress, emphasizing its detrimental effects on societal cohesion. Additionally, nearly 90.46% of respondents identified themselves as non-tribalist, further emphasizing the widespread recognition of the issue.
Furthermore, respondents identified intermarriage, public sensitization, dialogue, and formal education as key actions in combating tribalism in The Gambia. These findings underscore the importance of proactive measures aimed at fostering inclusivity, understanding, and unity within the society, thus paving the way for a more harmonious and cohesive national landscape.
Considering these findings, the report recommends the need for dialogue and awareness campaigns that promote tolerance and unity among ethnic groups. The report also calls for political leaders and policymakers to prioritize national unity over ethnic divisions and work towards addressing the root causes of tribalism in The Gambia. Ultimately, the survey underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to promote social cohesion and address the negative impact of tribalism on Gambian society.