In the past there have been volunteers such that have stayed in a compound of the village of Kartong. During their time these individuals have been given a local name. It was decided by the elders of the village that I should also be given a Gambian name as I am now a resident of the village.
The village Elders asked me what is my full English name, which I told them, was Matthew Hancox. There was a small debate in mandinka about what name I should be given. After a few minutes I was told like Matthew means “a gift from God”, I would be named Matar which is the Gambian equivalent. As for my temporary surname there was no need for discussion because there is a local tradition that your surname is which every Kunda (Compound) you’re residing in. Since I am living in Jabang Kunda my full name while in the Gambia is Matar Jabang.
Having a Gambian name while travelling around the Gambian combined with the little Mandinka I have picked up is very useful for being able to haggle with taxi drivers, shop keepers. The Gambians seem to enjoy the fact that a Tobab has a Gambian name is trying to learn a local language and has really helped increasing participation at FC (Forest Committee) meetings.
