27 May 2008
Gambia is certainly home to some of the best craftsmen one will ever see, who often resort to ancestral techniques to create outstanding objects.
Bengdulas or craft markets are popular among tourists and collectors of African objects, who often plan to change the entire design of their living room back home as they walk down the alleys abounding with all sorts of colourful and unique objects.
By far the biggest in the Gambia, Brikama Craft Market is situated near the main costal resorts and offers everything from wood carving (tribal masks) to tie dye fabric prints, jewellery, pottery, and hand woven baskets made with dry palm leaves.
Craft markets have developed in recent years in response to the increase in the number of visitors to the country who therefore sustain the tourism economy and play and essential part in many Gambians' lives.
Alternatively, for those who only have limited space in their luggage for souvenirs, several online websites such as takecarenursery.co.uk offer similar products to those sold in bengdulas which they can deliver to the UK.
Take Care Nursery is a registered charity who supports the Take Care Nursery School in Farato-Sotokoi-Daru in West Gambia.