GAMBIAN MANDINKA
Preserving a language. Sharing a culture.
Gambian Mandinka is spoken by millions across West Africa, yet learning resources remain scarce, scattered, or written by outsiders. As a native speaker from Basse Dampha Kunda in The Gambia’s Upper River Region, I’m building the resources I wish existed when I was younger — for the diaspora, for new learners, for speakers reconnecting with their roots, and for anyone curious about a language that carries centuries of stories, philosophy, and song.
This is a long-term project. New resources are added as they’re written, illustrated, and properly tested. Bookmark this page or join the newsletter to be notified as each one launches.
IN PROGRESS
Gambian Mandinka Coursebook — Volume 1
The first volume in a planned five-volume coursebook series. A complete beginner-to-intermediate path through Gambian Mandinka — grammar, vocabulary, dialogues, cultural notes, and exercises. Designed as the master source for flashcards, phrase books, and a future video course.
IN PROGRESS
Gambian Mandinka Dictionary
A 12,570-headword dictionary — the most comprehensive Gambian Mandinka reference being built today. English-Mandinka and Mandinka-English, with phonetic guides, cultural notes, and idiomatic expressions. Currently in editing and proofreading.
COMING SOON
100 First Words in Gambian Mandinka
A beautifully illustrated starter book for absolute beginners — children, travelers, diaspora reconnecting with roots. The 100 most useful words in Gambian Mandinka, with images, pronunciation guides, and example sentences. Perfect first step into the language.
COMING SOON
Mandinka Flashcards
Printable and digital flashcards covering essential vocabulary, common phrases, verbs, and cultural expressions. Built from the coursebook source material. Designed for daily 5-minute practice — for learners on the go, classrooms, and self-study.
COMING SOON
Medical Mandinka — A Practical Reference
A specialised reference for healthcare workers, NGOs, volunteers, and travelers serving Mandinka-speaking communities. Common symptoms, body parts, medical procedures, patient instructions, and cultural sensitivity notes — bridging language barriers in critical moments.
COMING SOON
Children's Book in Gambian Mandinka
An original illustrated story for young readers — in Gambian Mandinka with English translation. Drawn from the oral storytelling tradition of The Gambia, designed to spark love for the language in children growing up at home and in the diaspora.
Be the first to know.
Each project launches when it’s truly ready — properly written, illustrated, and tested. Join the newsletter to get notified as each resource goes live, plus monthly notes on Mandinka language, culture, and the writing process.