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==Tanji River==

The Tanji River is a waterway located in western Gambia, West Africa. It flows through the Kombo Saint Mary District before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean.

==Geography==

The Tanji River originates in the hills near the border with Senegal and flows for approximately 50 kilometers before reaching the coast. Along its course, it passes through the town of Tanji, for which it is named. The river's estuary forms a brackish wetland ecosystem where the freshwater mixes with the salty seawater.

==Ecology==

The Tanji River and its surrounding wetlands support a diverse array of plant and animal life. Mangrove forests line the riverbanks, providing habitat for species like the red colobus monkey and various birds. The river and its estuary are important fishing grounds, with catches of fish, shrimp, and oysters sustaining local communities.

==Human Use==

The Tanji River is a vital water source and transportation route for communities living along its banks. Fishing, both commercial and subsistence, is a major economic activity. The river also supports irrigation for agriculture in the surrounding region. A small port and fish market have developed at the town of Tanji near the river's mouth.

==Importance==

===Economic Significance===

The Tanji Waterway supports local fisheries, which provide a primary source of income and food for the nearby communities. Local fishermen rely on the waterway for their livelihoods, engaging in sustainable fishing practices to maintain fish populations.

===Cultural Relevance===

The waterway holds cultural significance for local communities, who often engage in traditional fishing and other water-related activities. It is also a site for community gatherings and celebrations, reflecting the connection between the people and their environment.

==Conservation==
Efforts are underway to protect the Tanji River ecosystem, which faces threats from overfishing, pollution, and coastal development. The river and its wetlands are designated as part of the Tanbi Wetland Complex, a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance. Local and national conservation initiatives aim to sustainably manage the river's natural resources.

==See Also==

Gambia River
Mangrove Ecosystems
Fisheries in Gambia

==References==
National Geographic - West African Wetlands
World Wildlife Fund - Biodiversity in The Gambia
Local NGO Reports on Tanji