Overview

Location:
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa, bordered by Kenya (east), South Sudan (north), the Democratic Republic of Congo (west), Rwanda (southwest), and Tanzania (south).

Capital City:
Kampala

Population:
About 47 million people (2024 estimate)

Official Languages:

• English (official)

• Swahili (co-official)

• Many local languages, especially Luganda (widely spoken in the central region)

Government:
Presidential republic. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has been in power since 1986.

Currency:
Ugandan Shilling (UGX)

Key Facts

• Often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa” (a term made famous by Winston Churchill) due to its natural beauty and biodiversity.

• Home to the source of the Nile River in Jinja.

• Known for friendly people, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Brief History

• Colonized by the British in the late 1800s, Uganda gained independence in 1962.

• Suffered through troubled years under dictators like Idi Amin (1971–1979).

• The National Resistance Movement (NRM) led by Museveni came to power in 1986, ending years of civil war.

• Uganda has faced challenges with political freedoms, human rights, and corruption, but also achieved significant development progress.

Nature & Tourism

Uganda is one of the most biodiverse countries in Africa:

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – for gorilla trekking

• Murchison Falls National Park – powerful waterfalls and Big Five game viewing

• Queen Elizabeth National Park – tree-climbing lions, hippos, and more

• Lake Victoria – Africa’s largest lake

Economy

• Based on agriculture (coffee, tea, bananas, maize), tourism, and remittances.

• Emerging sectors include oil and gas, ICT, and construction.

• Poverty has reduced over the years, but youth unemployment remains a big challenge.

Culture

• Over 50 ethnic groups, with different languages, dances, and traditions.

• Popular tribes include Baganda, Banyankole, Basoga, Acholi, and Bakiga.

• Traditional ceremonies like kwanjula (introduction) and ekisakate (youth camps) play a major role in society.