MacCarthy Island

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MacCarthy Island, River island in Central River Division, Gambia

The island extends 10 kilometers in length and 1.5 kilometers in width, encompassing 20 square kilometers of land in the Gambia River.

British captain Alexander Grant acquired the island in 1823 from King Kolli Camara of Lower Niani to establish a settlement for freed slaves.

The Kankurang Festival occurs each January on the island, featuring traditional masquerades that represent essential elements of Mandinka cultural practices.

The island connects to mainland Gambia through a bridge on the south bank and government-operated ferry services from the north bank.

The island houses numerous hippos and over 100 refugee chimpanzees in the River Gambia National Park's protected environment.

Location: Central River Division

Capital city: Janjanbureh

GPS coordinates: 13.53361,-14.76639

Latest update: March 7, 2025 10:15

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