Subdivisions of the Gambia

The Gambia is divided into five administrative Regions (until 2007 these were known as "divisions") and one City. The divisions of the Gambia are created by the Independent Electoral Commission in accordance to Article 192 of the National Constitution.^[1]

During the 2013 census, the Western region was the most populated with a population of 699,704, while the Lower River region was the least populated with 82,361. The maximum density of population was seen in Western with 396.59 persons per km², while it was lowest in Lower River with 50.90 persons per km². The maximum number of households was in Western region with 45,396 households as of 2003. Lower River had the highest infant mortality rate of 96 for every thousand births and under-five mortality of 137 per every thousand births. In 2003, the poverty gap ratio was greatest in Central River with 36.45% and lowest in Lower River with 19.80%.

The Local Government Act passed in 2002 superseded the previous local government acts like Local Government Act (Amended 1984), Local Government (City of Banjul) Act (Amended 1988), The Kanifing Municipal Council Act 1991 and the Provinces Act. There were six local government areas, each subdivided into districts and wards. Residents elect a mayor and councilmen, with the mayor serving as chairman of the council.