By: Fatoumata Konteh
Afra is one of The Gambia’s most beloved street foods, known for its irresistible flavor and simple yet delicious preparation. Typically served with a mix of sliced onions, cooking oil, a dash of ground pepper, Maggi or Jumbo seasoning, sliced tomatoes, and other vegetables, Afra offers a rich, piquant taste that has made it a favorite across the country.
Afra, which consists of tender beef or chicken cut into bite-sized pieces and grilled to perfection, is popular throughout the Senegambia region.
The grilling process softens the meat and enhances its flavor, making it a staple street food that can be found in nearly every place in The Gambia.
While beef Afra is the most common variety, chicken and lamb Afra are also widely enjoyed. Regardless of the meat used. The succulent grilled meat is typically served in a simple brown paper bag or wrapped in foil, making it an easy, portable meal.
Afra’s affordability and widespread availability have made it a favorite choice for locals and visitors. Its popularity goes beyond just being a delicious snack; sharing Afra with friends and family fosters a sense of community and connection, making it more than just food—it’s an experience.
Muhammed Mbaye, an Afra vendor at the Post Office Road along Kairaba Avenue, shared his experience with The Voice: “I’ve been selling Afra since 1982. It’s my sole source of income, and it’s from it I support my family and take care of my responsibilities as a father and grandfather.”
Describing his daily routine, Mbaye explained, “I start selling around 6 to 7 pm. I used to run a small restaurant where I served meat during the day and grilled at night, but the road cleaners task force destroyed it. Now, I can only sell at night. A plate of my Beef Afra starts at D100.”
Isatou Jallow, a fan of Afra, spoke about why she loves it: “I like Afra because it’s always well-prepared. It’s a delicious appetizer, and I love it, especially the chicken version. It’s quicker to prepare than the beef, which takes more time.”
Abdoukarim Ceesay, another Afra vendor at BundungBorehole Garage, also offered insights into his business and pricing: “I sell both chicken and lamb Afra. The price for chicken starts at D50, while lamb starts at D100. Customers can choose to add mayonnaise, ketchup, or other vegetables, depending on their preferences.”
Muhammed Jallow, a regular customer, explained why he often chooses Afra after work: “I’m a bachelor, and Afra is my go-to dinner. It’s available everywhere on the street and it’s affordable. Beyond its taste, enjoying Afra while walking through the bustling streets or gathering with friends creates lasting memories. It’s a perfect example of The Gambia’s vibrant street food culture.”
Afra’s delicious flavors, affordability, and role in bringing people together make it a true Gambian culinary treasure.