Well, I’ve been in The Gambia for a little over a week.  There’s a lot to say about my stay.  First of all, it really does feel like home.  The people, the atmosphere- all of it just feels right…

All the bad & good stuff they’re saying about land purchase is true.  There are a bunch of shady characters who will try to convince you to buy  land that isn’t theirs to sell.  Repatriates have likely lost millions on these scams.  The land purchase process is bad, but getting better.  It’s important to do a land search (similar to a title search) to make sure the land belongs to the folks you’re giving money to & make sure the government has documented you are the rightful owner, through a land transfer.  On a good note, there are several credible sources who offer land with honesty.  Some are more professional than others, but it’s important to understand, everyone will not cheat you. But you have to keep your side-eye sharp!!  Once all the transfers & permits are filed, you can build as you please.  I’m praying all of this will be done by the time I return to The Gambia in April…  I’m not a patient person.

The Gambia is all about “who” you know…  This will determine how long you wait for things and/or how much you pay for them.  Everything is negotiable.  Repatriates almost always pay more for things- it’s part of the dance.  Gambians like to haggle for everything, so be aware that you should pay 1/3 (or less) of the first price offered.  Thankfully, we’ve hooked up with some very kind and well connected Gambians who have been patient and wonderful to us.

I was surprised that some (younger adult) Gambian women don’t really like Black American women.  I get mean stares sometimes and hard looks.  Where do I think this came from?  Well, many Gambians think Americans are rich & some young Gambian women aren’t allowed to do whatever they want with their lives- they have to do what’s best for the family.  I think the free-ness of Black American women might rub the the wrong way- we all tend to be bold and outspoken, similar to older Gambian women.  Oh, and staring is a “thing” here…  I find that staring back helps folks understand that their intense gaze isn’t fun when it’s returned.  😂 Despite all that, I’ve made some great Gambian friends!!  Once folks take a minute to get to know you, they tend to take a chill pill and relax…

I’m practicing the fine art of getting to know folks without choosing factions or making knee-jerk assumptions.  I’m entering a phase of life where I want to be the change I seek.  I hope others will follow that example.  I want to build my compound, start my business and make connections with like-minded people, full stop.  I have no interest in foolish behavior, feuds, or negativity that doesn’t serve a positive end.  If I wanted divisiveness, back-stabbing, and Team Petty, I would be planning to stay in the US.  Like I said, I’m practicing…  I really try not to cuss anyone out, but you know, the devil is busy, chile…  😆 

I’ve done some touristy things on this trip, like a visit to Kunte Kinte Island & Village, a day with Ida Yabouy for culture & cooking, home of the Mbolo Association/Fandema– who provides trade training for young women, and shortly, will visit Mama Africa & her beautiful gardens.  Next time, I plan to visit the Wassu Stone Circles overnight in the Eastern part of Gambia.  Should be fun!  All my trips really allowed me to see how truly cool Africa really is and how blessed I am to be here!

In summary, I really don’t want to leave in a few days.  I wish I could gather my favorite people from the US and have them here.  Hopefully, some of you will visit once my compound is ready.  I’ve already started working with the builder/architect, we’re ready to get started!  Please comment below or ask questions- I’ll keep you posted on the goings on!  😀