Reclaiming the Bantaba system as a symbol of traditional governance and participatory development in The Gambia

Historically, the Bantaba, originally a Mandinka word for ‘traditional parliament,’ is an open sitting space at the village square, mostly under big trees, which is now widely used among various ethnic groups in The Gambia and has long been a cornerstone of the traditional governance system and social cohesion in the society. It serves as a forum for communal decision-making, cultural education, and civic engagement that represents a uniquely African form of democratic expression. Thus, this study examines the multifaceted roles of Bantaba as a communication hub, a site for cultural transmission, a platform for political awareness, and an egalitarian space that rejects caste or class divisions. Drawing on oral sources, cultural history, and indigenous knowledge systems, the study argues for the revitalization of the Bantaba system as a means of promoting participatory development and reinforcing unity in Gambian society. By situating the Bantaba within contemporary debates on governance and identity, the study highlights its enduring relevance in the struggle to reclaim African political traditions amidst global changes and the challenges posed by social media, which keeps people connected despite physical detachment.