About Nakala
Empowering Gambians to share their culture and passion for the Smiling Coast with the world. We create meaningful connections between travelers and authentic experiences.
Project Overview
Over the next 90 days starting December 8th, Nakala will run a pilot testing the features needed on our platform.
Pilot Goals
- Onboard 100 hosts
- Onboard 100 influencers
- List 100 unique experiences
- Service 100 repeat clients
Timeline
Pilot Phase
December 8th - March 8th
Official Launch
October 2026
The Problem
Gambia's tourism industry has been struggling since COVID, but our culture remains our biggest export.
The problem is that Gambia's tourism industry has been losing momentum because travelers don't have access to reliable information. They struggle to find authentic experiences offered in the country.
While local hosts lack a platform to showcase what they offer or earn from it. This creates a major inefficiency in the marketplace and a negative loop that slows down offers and decision making for both buyers and sellers.
Sending the entire industry into a downward spiral.
Our Solution
Nakala connects travelers with trusted hosts, influencers, and authentic experiences.
We give locals a platform to be seen and to earn. Our platform also includes a referral program that allows influencers (and even travelers) to earn from sharing the Smiling Coast they love.
By making it easy for travelers to find and book real experiences, we remove the information gap, speed up discovery, and help spark real growth in Gambia's tourism marketplace.
"The heart of that culture lives in our people: local guides, young creators, Gambians in the diaspora, and all non-Gambians that found home in the Smiling Coast."
- Mukhtarr, Founder
Our Mission & Vision
Empowering Gambians to turn their knowledge and passion for the Smiling Coast into meaningful experiences.
Our Mission
To create a community where travelers get authentic and memorable adventures, while empowering local hosts, guides, and influencers to share their culture and earn from it.
Our Vision
To revive Gambia's tourism industry by connecting the world with the authentic experiences that make the Smiling Coast so special, creating economic opportunities for all who call it home.
Pilot Goals & Impact
Our 90-day pilot program starting December 8th aims to build a strong foundation for Gambia's tourism revival.
Hosts Onboarded
Influencers
Unique Experiences
Repeat Clients
Official Launch: October 2026
Following our successful pilot, we'll officially launch Nakala to bring authentic Gambian experiences to the world.
Earn Rewards with Our Referral Program
Share the beauty of The Gambia and earn points that you can redeem for amazing experiences.
Refer Friends
Share your unique referral link with friends and family who are planning to visit The Gambia.
Earn Points
Get points for each successful referral when your friends book tours, events, or experiences through Nakala.
Redeem Rewards
Exchange your points for discounts on tours, event tickets, accommodation, and other amazing Gambian experiences.
How It Works
1. Sign up for a Nakala account and get your personal referral link
2. Share your link with friends planning to visit The Gambia
3. Earn 500 points when a referred friend makes their first booking
4. Redeem points for discounts: 1,000 points = $10 off any tour or event
5. Points never expire and there's no limit to how many friends you can refer!
Meet Our Team
Passionate locals dedicated to showcasing the best of The Gambia and empowering our community.
Mukhtarr
FounderVisionary leader passionate about connecting Gambians with the world and reviving our tourism industry through authentic experiences.
Amadou Sillah
Operations LeadExperienced tour guide ensuring all our experiences meet the highest standards of authenticity and safety.
Fatou Ceesay
Community ManagerExpert in wildlife conservation and cultural preservation, connecting us with local communities and traditions.
Modou Jallow
PartnershipsBuilds relationships with local businesses and ensures fair opportunities for all guides and service providers.
Get in Touch
Have questions about our platform or want to partner with us? We'd love to hear from you.