Mystical Dragons Residing in Gambia River: Empowering Communities through Storytelling and Crafts

The Gambia River communities hold a treasure of cultural heritage in the folklore of the Ninki Nanka - a mystical dragon said to reside in the creeks of the Gambia River. However, as traditional storytelling declines amongst younger generations, this rich heritage risks being lost forever. Meanwhile, rural communities along the river remain excluded from the tourism benefits concentrated in coastal areas. To preserve this endangered folklore and create sustainable livelihoods, the TUI Care Foundation, in partnership with Ninki Nanka Encounters Foundation, is launching a three-year cultural heritage project that empowers local people to share their traditions authentically. TUI Colourful Cultures Gambia establishes a storytelling, crafts and creatives incubator in Kotu, supporting community members including cultural groups, women�s groups, artists, artisans and tour guides across six communities along the Ninki Nanka Trail. With tourism accounting for approximately 15% of the national GDP, The Gambia recognises the sector�s economic importance.