The Gambia Introduces New 9-Digit Mobile Numbering System
The Gambia has begun its transition from seven-digit to nine-digit mobile telephone numbers under the country’s new National Numbering Plan. Customers of Africell, QCell and Comium retain their existing numbers but must add a new two-digit network prefix.
The Gambia Introduces New 9-Digit Mobile Numbering System
Visitors, businesses and international partners communicating with contacts in The Gambia should be aware that the country has introduced a new nine-digit mobile numbering system, effective from 4 September 2026.
The change forms part of The Gambia’s National Numbering Plan administered by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) and expands affected mobile numbers from seven to nine digits. Existing subscriber numbers remain the same, with a two-digit prefix added according to the mobile network.
What has changed?
Under the new numbering arrangement, Africell customers add the prefix 87, QCell customers add 83, and Comium customers add 86 to the beginning of their existing seven-digit mobile numbers.
For example, an Africell number previously written as 7677033 becomes 877677033 under the new system.
Customers do not need to obtain a new SIM card or change their existing subscriber number. The appropriate two-digit network prefix is simply added to the beginning of the existing number.
What about Gamcel and Gamtel?
Gamcel mobile numbers are not included in this phase of the migration and continue to use their existing seven-digit format. Gamtel landline numbers are also not part of the current mobile-number transition.
Calling The Gambia from abroad
The international country code for The Gambia remains +220.
An Africell number previously written internationally as +220 7677033, for example, would now be written as +220 87 7677033.
International callers, businesses and institutions with Gambian contacts should therefore update their telephone records to include the appropriate new network prefix.
Important for Hungarian nationals and partners
Hungarian nationals, businesses and institutions communicating with contacts in The Gambia are encouraged to update saved Gambian mobile numbers, business directories, emergency contacts and other records to reflect the new numbering format.
The Office of the Honorary Consul of Hungary to The Gambia will likewise update its published contact information where applicable.
For authoritative information regarding the new numbering system, members of the public should consult the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA).