Juffureh Village
- Juffureh Village is one of the most historically significant sites in The Gambia, located on the north bank of the River Gambia, near Albreda Village. It is best known for its connection to the transatlantic slave trade and as the ancestral home of Kunta Kinte, the famous African captured and sold into slavery, whose story was made famous in Alex Haley’s book "Roots". The village has since become an important destination for tourists, historians, and those tracing their African heritage.
- Juffureh was an important trading center during the 17th and 18th centuries, attracting European traders, missionaries, and colonial powers. It was initially controlled by local Mandinka rulers, but the arrival of Portuguese, French, and British traders turned it into a hub for the slave trade and commerce. Nearby, James Island (now Kunta Kinteh Island) served as a key holding station for enslaved Africans before they were sent across the Atlantic. Today, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can take boat trips from Juffureh to explore its ruins and dungeons.
- One of the main attractions in Juffureh is the Slavery Museum, which provides a detailed account of The Gambia’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. The museum houses historical artifacts, documents, and exhibitions that illustrate the harsh realities of slavery and its impact on Africa. Another significant landmark is the Kinte Family Compound, where descendants of Kunta Kinte still live today. Many visitors come to Juffureh to connect with their African ancestry and learn about the legacy of the slave trade.
- Despite its historical past, Juffureh remains a thriving Gambian village, where visitors can experience traditional Mandinka culture, music, and daily life. The village frequently hosts cultural performances, storytelling sessions, and community-led tours, allowing guests to engage with locals and understand Gambian heritage firsthand. Whether visiting for its historical significance, cultural experiences, or scenic river views, Juffureh continues to be one of The Gambia’s most important and moving destinations.