A growing trend is raising eyebrows across The Gambia as young women increasingly refer to men as “uncle”, even when the age gap is barely there.
From restaurants to public spaces, male customers say they’re now routinely greeted with the term, leaving some feeling as if they’ve suddenly aged overnight.
“It’s awkward,” one man told What’s On–Gambia. “Especially when the person calling you uncle could easily be my age.”
While some men say the label hits hard, others insist there’s nothing to be offended by. According to them, “uncle” is simply a respectful way of addressing someone slightly older – even by just a year.
Adding to the debate, a teacher revealed that many kindergartens now encourage children to call their teachers “uncle” and “auntie” instead of using surnames, reinforcing the practice from an early age.
Love it or hate it, one thing is clear: in The Gambia today, “uncle” is everywhere, and it’s making some men feel very old, very fast.