The Gambia as a nation is literally shaped by the river from which it takes its name. Following the river to the sea, no wider than 48 Kilometers at any one point, the nation is a unique microcosm of river life. This spot is an hour or two upriver from the Atlantic Ocean. The river appears about as wide as the Missouri river where we live, St. Joseph. The country is not as long as the state of Missouri is wide.
On a quiet Sunday, people from the nearby village fish and swim in the river. The Cypress poles you see will be used for roof supports. Agricultural activities are not far away.
For an interesting comparison of The Gambia to the United States check out
http://www.ifitweremyhome.com/compare/US/GM