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Blog, Gambia

Facts to assist you while travelling to Gambia.

Gambian population

7 million.

Capital and Largest City

Banjul.

Official Language(s)

English.

Currency

Dalasi.

Office Hours

09:00 – 17:00.

Weekend

Saturday – Sunday.

Time Zone

UTC.

Calling Code

+220.

Tipping

If a service charge is not included in the bill a tip of 10% is acceptable.

Embassies

Most countries are represented by embassies or consulates located in the capital city.

Government

Adama Barrow is a Gambian politician and real estate developer who has served as President of the Gambia since 2017.

Climate

Gambia has a tropical climate. The hot and rainy season normally lasts from June until November. Thereafter, from December until May, cooler temperatures predominate, and precipitation decreases. The climate in The Gambia closely resembles that of neighbouring Senegal, of southern Mali, and of the northern part of Benin.

Transport

The main airport in Gambia is the Banjul International Airport, located in its capital city. The system of transportation in Gambia mixes both public and private operations and consists of a system of roads that are both paved and unpaved, water and air transportation. There are no railways in the country.

Economy

Gambia’s main industries that contribute towards its GDP include mining, processing peanuts, fish, tourism, beverages, agricultural machinery assembly, woodworking, metalworking, and clothing.

Hospitality

The ethnic groups that reside in Gambia prioritise tranquility of life, and their manners and actions tend to ease the attainment of that goal. Regardless of ethnicity, Gambians are often soft-spoken and gentle in demeanor. They avoid unnecessary conflicts and strive toward quiet settlement of disputes.

Greetings

A common handshake between two men occurs with the right hand and tends to linger for a bit. Handshakes may also be accompanied by an intimate and polite touching of the forearm or upper arm. Older people are greeted first, typically by saying ‘’Asalaamalekum’’. With women, a verbal greeting tends to suffice. It may be accompanied by a handshake, and this is acceptable, but not expected. The elder woman usually leads the greeting. Due to most of the population practicing Islam, refrain from greeting the opposite sex. Verbal greetings are sufficient but try to avoid direct eye contact. It is taboo for religiously observant Muslim men to touch women and vice-versa.

Money

The official currency of Gambia is the Gambian Dalasi (GMD), which is subdivided into 100 bututs. The country has a cash-based economy, so while you may find a number of hotels and restaurants that accept visa debit cards, not many will take credit card payments.

Transportation

One of the major challenges faced by people travelling to Gambia is getting around the country by road and crossing the river safely by boat. Most roads in the country are in a poor condition that often worsens during the rainy season. There is no existing public transport system and Gambian drivers have varying levels of skill and respect for basic road rules. Many of them do not make use of the vehicle’s headlights at night, especially in areas that actually have streetlights, like the capital city. Drunk driving is also a frequent occurrence amongst citizens and traffic laws and regulations are not properly implemented.

Safety

Gambia is known as the Smiling Coast of Africa due to its reputation for positivity and good vibes. While the country is reported to be safe, crimes do occur. Most crimes that take place are petty crimes such as pickpocketing, scams and theft. However, it is not common that visitors are targeted, and most people who visited Gambia have not experienced any crime whatsoever. It is important that you practice vigilance and take precautions.

Culture

Gambia is a multiethnic country. The country’s most prominent ethnic groups include the Fula, Jola, Mandinka, Serahule, and Wolof. These groups coexist in the same regions, and there is no part of The Gambia that is inhabited by one single ethnic group. This has led to the sharing and mixing of cultural traits among the groups, which has in turn led to a movement toward a Gambian national culture. Islam is the biggest religion in Gambia, with Muslims making up 90 percent of the country’s population. There is also a small group of Christian followers, as well as an even smaller group of locals who still practice traditional and indigenous religions.

Shops

There are many supermarkets in and towards the city spaces that are well-stocked with imported food, as well as malls and shopping centres. Shops are open from 9am and usually close only after 7pm, from Monday to Saturday.

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Immigration, News

Immigration Update 03/04/2024

SA Immigration News

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) published a draft second amendment of the SA Immigration Regulation 2014, which was dated 9 February 2024.

Members of the public were given until 29 March 2024, to submit written suggestions, comments, etc. relating to the proposed amendments.

Despite the closing date for written submissions being 29 March 2024, The DHA proceeded to publish the new regulations, which was dated and implemented on 28 March 2024.

The crucial amendments are as described below:

When applying for long term temporary residence visas and/or permanent residence permits, police clearances / criminal record checks are required in respect of countries where the applicant resided for longer than 12 months, immediately preceding the date of their visa / permit application.

Radiological reports are no longer required when applying for temporary residence visas and/or permanent residence permits.

A spouse or child of a SA citizen or permanent resident, or the parent of a SA citizen or permanent resident child, may apply for a change of status / condition, from a visitors visa, to any other visa category, from within SA.

If a foreign national is employed by a foreign employer on a remote basis and provided that they earn a minimum annual salary equivalent to R1 million, they may apply for a visitors visa in terms of Section 11(2) of the SA Immigration Act, for the purpose of working remotely in SA. If the visa is issued for longer than 6 months (within a 12 months period), the applicant must register with the SA Revenue Services.

A foreign national who qualifies to apply for a critical skills work visa, must provide proof of registration with a SAQA accredited board/body/council in SA, if such registration is required by law, provided that in the event of submitting proof that one has applied for such registration, the critical skills work visa may be issued for an initial duration not exceeding 12 months.

All work visa applications must be adjudicated in accordance with a point-based system, as determined by the Minister of the DHA. Although not limited to, the points base system, will consider, age, educational qualification, language skills, work experience, offer of employment, the ability to adapt within SA, etc.

The points base document has not yet been issued, which already proposes a new challenge.

To stay informed on global trending topics in the industry, visit our Knowledge Centre where you can access our exclusive range of insightful news posts, webinars, and blogs.

Blog, zambia

Zambia – Travel Guide

Facts to assist you while travelling to Zambia.

Zambian population

5 million.

Capital and Largest City

Lusaka.

Official Language(s)

English.

Currency

Zambian kwacha.

Office Hours

08:00 – 17:00.

Weekend

Saturday – Sunday.

Time Zone

UTC +2.

Calling Code

+260.

Tipping

If a service charge is not included in the bill a tip of 10% is acceptable.

Embassies

Most countries are represented by embassies or consulates located in the capital city.

Government

Hakainde Hichilema is a Zambian businessman, farmer, and politician who is the seventh and current president of Zambia.

Climate

The climate of Zambia in Central and Southern Africa is tropical but modified by altitude (elevation). In the Köppen climate classification, most of the country is classified as humid-subtropical or tropical wet and dry, with small patches of semi-arid climate in the south-west. There are two main seasons, the rainy season lasts from November until April and occurs during summer, while the dry season lasts from May until October and occurs during winter.

Transport

The main airport in Zambia is the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, located in Lusaka. Zambia has rail links with the DRC, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and Angola. Zambia also has many navigable rivers, lakes, and channels through swamps, which together reach a large proportion of the rural population. The country has 88 airports, eight of which have paved runways.

Economy

The main industries in Zambia that contributes to its GDP include agriculture, copper mining, manufacturing, fisheries and livestock, energy, electricity, tourism, media, and finance and banking.

Hospitality

Zambian’s traditionally serve a local dish called nshima at gatherings and have a standard set of etiquettes revolving around how nshima should be eaten. Nshima with ndiwo is the most important meal in Zambian culture. It holds significance in the traditional culture of the people as it is often shared alongside expressions, tales of hospitality and wisdom and folk tales. It is considered a sign of disrespect to serve left over nshima to an adult, as elders are typically shown more respect in the culture. Be careful not to over-indulge as Zambians believe that leaving some food behind on your plate indicates that you have been satisfied.

Greetings

Greetings always start with a handshake and a polite, “How are you?”. This is frequently followed by questions about the wellbeing of your family, or the conditions of your journey.

Money

The Kwacha (code: ZMW) is the currency of Zambia. The name kwacha is derived from the Nyanja, Bemba, and Tonga word for “dawn”. Its meaning alludes to the Zambian nationalist slogan of a “new dawn of freedom”. The name ngwee translates as “bright” in the Nyanja language.

Transportation

Zambia has over 91 000km of roads divided into trunk roads, main roads, and district roads, which connects rural areas to other trunk and main roads. Most trunk and main roads are paved while district roads can sometimes be partially paved or may even be gravel and dirt. The condition of these roads get worse during the rainy season. All trunk roads are tolled with toll gates being administered by the National Road Fund Agency (NRFA) and Road Development Agency (RDA). When travelling to Zambia, it is important that you remember to take this into consideration as you plan your budget.

Safety

Although Zambia is one of the safer countries in Africa, visitors are still advised to take whichever precautions they feel necessary. Mostly petty crimes occur, such as bag snatching and theft from parked cars. It is best to always keep your bags and other valuables secure and close to you. When traveling by car, keep the doors locked and the windows up at all times. Valuables should be kept out of sight as thieves may target travelers at transport hubs, crowded market areas and shopping precincts.

Culture

Zambian culture traditionally separated the roles of men and women. However, this practice is much less common in recent years, especially in the urban areas. In rural areas, women in are generally assigned the household tasks, children care, and work in the fields. Men are expected to do the fishing, hunting, and livestock management, as well as the family’s financial planning. Christianity is the religion of the majority of Zambians, and this is reflected in the contemporary culture of the citizens. Weddings and other important events are mostly in the traditional Christian style but often incorporates elements of indigenous customs and rituals.

Shops

Zambia has a number of modern shopping centres and malls that resemble those found in western countries. Shopping in this country should be hassle free, especially in the capital city and other urban areas. There are also a multitude of online stores for the convenience of all shoppers.

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Africa, Blog

Relocation Africa’s presence at the SACC-Cape Chapters Launch Event

Part of our identity at Relocation Africa is the fact that we are multifaceted and diverse. We are engaged in numerous independent and international commercial initiatives outside of our company such as EuRA, which we are a proud member of, and we take pleasure in the satisfaction and fulfilment that comes from our involvement in external causes and activities.

Relocation Africa celebrates every achievement, triumph, and milestone, and pays homage to each of them, whether great or small, in order to acknowledge their individual importance.

We celebrate being a member of the Cape Chapters, which is a branch of the South African Chamber of Commerce, based in the UK. The SACC is an organisation that promotes fair trade and investment into and out of South Africa. Additionally, the South African Chamber of Commerce also acts as a meeting point for South African business in the UK and promotes business opportunities between the two nations. Prioritising South African businesses first and foremost, the SACC considers themselves to be a means through which crucial knowledge about relevant business practices can be shared, a platform through which advice and training can be offered to its members, as well as a united voice in instances when dealing with government bodies and representatives.

With specific focus on the Western Cape, the South African Chamber of Commerce hosted the Cape Chapters launch event in celebration of the organisation’s new developments and partnerships. The launch event was undertaken by 130 guests, all of whom were prominent figures, diplomats, and stakeholders in the industry. The launch event was officialised with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, which was conducted by the British High Commissioner, Anthony Phillipson, and the Chairman of the SACC, Sharon Constançon. Celebrations filled the air as guests enjoyed a banquet of delicious refreshments, engaged in constructive conversations, and displayed gratitude to the long list of proud sponsors who each played a role in the success of the evening.

Relocation Africa graciously and generously consolidated their position in the industry, and their keen interest in the new opportunities that this cooperation will produce, with their commitment to strengthening and establishing relationships, by being one of the many sponsors of the Cape Chapters launch event. Given the company’s allegiance and dedication to establishing international connections, as well as their location in the birthplace of the Cape Chapters, the Western Cape, such proceedings seemed fitting.

Other sponsors whose assistance was integral to the success of the evening are:

Natalie Naudé, who provided the evening’s entertainment. The Congo Cowboys kept the guests entertained with their exhilarating performances that are representative of the coalescence of African and international efforts.

Frankie Bells Real Estate, for their significant cash donation that stands as testimony to their commitment to the growth of UK-South Africa relations.

David Naudé, the trusted and creative photographer, and Bjorn Salsone, the reliable MC extraordinaire.

Abroadscope, whose support has been instrumental in allowing for a seamless and successful event.

The British High Commission, who provided the venue and refreshments for the launch event.

Table Mountain water, who sponsored the water, and De Grendel, who sponsored the wines.

The purpose of the Cape Chapter is essentially to improve economic associations and business relations between the United Kingdom and South Africa, particularly the Western Cape. Its commencement is representative of the efforts of all involved parties to promote innovation, collaboration, and trade partnerships. The Commencement of the Cape Chapters is primarily based in the Western Cape owing to its ideal location, its diverse and ever-growing business community, as well as its entrepreneurial spirit. However, the organisation has every intention to spread beyond the province’s borders and into the rest of the country.

Sharon Constançon, Chairman of the SA Chamber of Commerce UK, in her extraordinary speech at the launch event, describing the Cape Chapter, said:

“The launch of the Cape Chapter is a momentous occasion for the South African Chamber of commerce UK. It signifies our commitment to expanding our reach and strengthening our presence in key regions. With its dynamic business community and entrepreneurial spirit, the Western Cape is a natural choice for our next chapter. We look forward to working closely with local businesses, government agencies, and partners to create new avenues for growth, trade, and collaboration.”

Apart from successful trade and collaboration, the Cape Chapters will also produce lots of fruitful benefits for all parties, including more investments, cultural enrichment, and a large medium for the exchange of knowledge. Most importantly, the Cape Chapter, and all that it entails, will pave the way for a prosperous UK-South Africa partnership.

Other benefits from this initiative include strengthening the bi-lateral ties and professional relationships between South Africa and the UK by:

Advocating for Business

Promoting Trade and Partnerships

Celebrating Culture and Heritage

Encouraging Investment

Cultivating Knowledge Exchange

Being an organisation whose primary objective is growth, the South African Chamber of Commerce is always inviting and accepting memberships from any credible South African business who shares its interests in the strengthening of global commercial connections. Signing up for a membership is as easy as visiting their website by clicking here and following the prompts. There are multiple variations of SACC memberships to suit their large and diverse audience, including memberships for young professionals, student associates, entrepreneurs, NGO’s, SME’s, corporates, as well as platinum memberships and strategic memberships. Each of these memberships are equipped with their own advantages and benefits.

Some of SACC’s most prestigious and renowned membership holders are amongst the likes of Absa Bank, AngloAmerican, Investec, and Barclays.

Some impressive advantages of being a member of SACC include:

Guaranteed invitations to all events, including private and international functions, to network and build relationships, and learn.

Earning up to 10% from any commercial returns received by SACC when sourcing business leads to hand to British Chamber.

Earning up to 25% of the commercial returns received by SACC when fostering direct business introduction to British Chamber.

Ability to place your services on offer on the Business Hub for proactive engagement of services to other members.

Involvement in projects, with appropriate praise and acknowledgements.

Platform to promote achievements and accolades.

Possible discounted membership or attendance rates.

The Cape Chapters launch event presented an amazing opportunity to network with the representatives of those companies already involved, and we are certain that, with continuous involvement of South African businesses and the perpetual growing number of their members, there will be many more evenings like this. The South African Chamber of Commerce and the Cape Chapter look forward to many more delightful evenings and events.

The South African Chamber of Commerce holds a great deal of opportunities for commercial growth and development, regardless of the stage or nature of your business – whether an entrepreneur, an SME, or a large corporate. Their website is filled with educational pieces that can benefit not only those seeking to join their membership program, but also individuals and organisations seeking to gain information on relevant topics.

In another recent event, Relocation Africa also had the honour of attending another function held by the Cape Chapters at Cape Town’s very own Royal Cape Yacht Club. The evening was spectacular, with an amazing line-up of speakers shedding much needed light on important topics in the industry. From rule of law, to the best way to go about attaining a visa, and the state of the global economy in relation to industry, the conversation went above the expectations of the audience. Relocation Africa is proud to be a part of the SACC UK, and a proud member of the Cape Chapters.

Visit their website to stay informed or join their memberships or email nnaude@sachamber.co.uk for more information.

Visit our Knowledge Centre to access our news posts, exclusive blogs, and insightful webinars. To read more about other initiatives and organisations that Relocation Africa is involved in, check out our article on the 2023 EuRA Sustainability Symposium.