The social structure of people tells us how individuals and people live together, and how they share common values that mould how their societies are run. 

We are grateful for social cohesion in The Gambia. Peace is the foundation of a stable economy and a harmonious society. 

Our ancestors in Senegambia built and left us the basic elements of social cohesion, let us cherish it so that we can pass it onto our grandchildren. We are different ethnic groups but one people. For all Gambians, we are brothers and sisters.

Some of the values tells you the do’s and don’t in society . Many are unwritten  but taught to you at early age. This is further reinforced in the various age sets or groups and language is guarded too. “salbeh buu nee njulii laa woon demb teh  njulii buu neh  att laa woon” . The teach was once a pupil. 

The values of society are the moral codes that runs through our character/behaviour and it stands the test of time.

To simplify this, think how our forefathers lived, how they supported each other. In Banjul we had what was locally called “rooti  gudi” exchanges of gifts or aids without the presence of others. 

These exchanges used to happened late at night or early hours before the start of business and the (ports) back alley ways were routes used.

If one needed help with fish money or anything this was done “sutura”. They had ngorr and jomm too. 

Reflection on the above, we must asked  how do we now want to live or where do we want to be?

The fundamental values our elders had included: tolerance, support for one another (ndimbal), resourcefulness , knowledge pass from generation to generation, respect for the elders, treating women with respect and dignity,  modesty in dress, welcoming visitors hospitality  for the guest (tauranga )and helping the less fortunate.

By Ebrima Jawo