Area Code 42 – Banjul
The phone area code for Banjul is 42 (international format +22042). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📍 Geographic Location of Banjul
Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction
The +220 42 numbering block is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the Greater Banjul Area, the capital and primary administrative hub of The Gambia. This code covers the City of Banjul itself, the Kanifing Municipal Council (including the densely populated municipality of Serrekunda), and the surrounding peri-urban settlements that form the core of the country's economic and political activity. As the seat of the national government, foreign embassies, and major financial institutions, the 42 code is predominantly used by businesses, public sector offices, and residents within this urban corridor.
Dialing Formats and Caller Instructions
For international callers, the correct format is +220 42X XXXX, where the NDC '42' is followed by a 6-digit subscriber number (the first digit of which may be a central office prefix). For example, a number might appear as +220 421 2345. Local callers within The Gambia must dial the full 8-digit national number, omitting the country code: 42X XXXX. It is important to note that The Gambia does not use trunk prefixes like '0' or '1' for domestic calls; the NDC is always dialed directly. There are currently no overlay codes in the Banjul area, so existing 42 numbers retain their original format.
Network Infrastructure and Numbering
Historically, the 42 code was assigned to fixed-line PSTN services operated by the incumbent, Gamtel. Following market liberalization, alternative operators have also been allocated numbers within this geographic range to provide fixed voice and broadband services. Subscriber numbers under the 42 NDC are typically 6 digits long, making the total national number length 8 digits (NDC + subscriber number). This structure aligns with ITU-T E.164 recommendations and the national numbering plan of The Gambia.
Practical Guidance for Callers
When calling a Banjul landline from abroad, always replace the leading '00' with your country's international access code (e.g., '011' from North America) and then dial 220 followed by the 8-digit number. If you are dialing from a mobile phone within The Gambia, simply enter the 8-digit number as you would for any local call. For businesses or individuals seeking a presence in the capital, a +220 42 number provides a recognizable geographic identity, which can enhance trust and local accessibility.