Gambia

The Gambia follows the Gambia River inland from the Atlantic, forming a narrow, low-lying country of floodplains, mangroves, woodland and savanna. A tropical wet-and-dry climate creates a pronounced rainy season. Earth blocks, laterite, timber, palm products and thatch have traditionally supported compounds and shaded dwellings, with verandas, pitched roofs and cross-ventilation important in the hot, humid environment.