From the awe-inspiring gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the mighty Nile River and the vibrant capital city of Kampala, Uganda has something to offer every visitor. Kampala, situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, is the vibrant capital city of Uganda. )exports of goods and services: 18.8% (2017 est. Second Largest Lake in the World Its surface area is more than 26,000 square miles, Lake Victoria (named for Queen Victoria) is the biggest lake on the continent of Africa and the globe's second-largest freshwater lake, trailing North America's Lake Superior. )solar: 1.6% of total installed capacity (2020 est. Uganda's water is pretty wonderful. Uganda is home to the UNESCO-listed Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Introduction See table: Uganda profile Uganda is a country in East Africa. Traditional dances like the Kiganda, Acholi, and Gishu showcase the countrys diverse cultural heritage. ), total: 15.7 yearsmale: 14.9 yearsfemale: 16.5 years (2020 est. Facts about Uganda which is wrong Idd Amin did rule Uganda for decades. The country is bordered to the east by Kenya, to the north by South Sudan, to the west by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to the south-west by Rwanda, and to the south by Tanzania. Two important cash crops for export are coffee and cotton. The northern white rhinoceros is no extinct in the wild with the surviving individuals all living in captivity. Heres more about the highest mountains in Africa. Published: 09 Jul 2023 Source: Wanderlust.co.uk Uganda may be a small landlocked country in East Africa, but it is filled with rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and a diverse array of wildlife. From the mighty Nile River to the famous gorilla tracking in the forests, Uganda offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Many tour operators, such as those for gorilla trekking, and upscale hotels often quote in U.S. dollars, but you can use Uganda shillings for payment. 43 million people live in Uganda. WHO Region: African Region. The stone Chapel on Biku Hill can only accommodate three people, including the priest. Source: BBC World Service, 27. Uganda by the Numbers. )other alcohols: 5.46 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est. Uganda | Religion, Population, Language, President, & Kampala It borders Kenya, South Sudan, DRC, Tanzania, and Rwanda. in the Same region, South Western Region is a home to one of the world's most beautiful Lakes Lake Mutanda and Bunyonyi. The most interesting facts about Uganda, from an array of natural wonders to the "Butcher of Uganda" at the centre of a dark history. The emigration of Ugandan doctors and nurses due to low wages is a particular concern given the countrys shortage of skilled health care workers. What are some popular tourist attractions in Uganda? Uganda Africa Page last updated: July 11, 2023 Photos of Uganda view 22 photos Introduction Background An ancient crossroads for various migrations, Uganda has as many as 65 ethnic groups that speak languages from three of Africa's four major linguistic families. References 1. Coffee is exported to numerous countries all over the world, including the US and Switzerland. The interesting facts about Uganda below may have you packing to go and see for yourself. "Land and Peasants in Western Uganda: Bushenyi and . Apart from various wildlife species, there are some interesting facts about Uganda as a country that is worth noting. So pack your bags, embrace the allure of the Pearl of Africa, and embark on a journey of exploration and discovery in Uganda. Since then, the country has continued to progress and develop. I hope you enjoy the following interesting facts about Lake Victoria. Winston Churchill famously described Uganda as the Pearl of Africa due to its remarkable beauty. ), total: 8.4% (2020 est. Museveni was born to cattle farmers and attended missionary schools. This street food inadvertently sounds like a famous watch brand. )industrial: 50 million cubic meters (2020 est. The infamous Idi Amin ruled Uganda for eight years from 1971 to 1979. 69 Fun Facts About Uganda | The Real Uganda Heres more aboutsafety in Uganda. Uganda is already a trailblazer, as it is one of the youngest and fastest-growing nations. Uganda also has average temperatures of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for vegetation. )crude oil and lease condensate imports: 0 bbl/day (2018 est. )from consumed natural gas: 0 metric tonnes of CO2 (2019 est. )from petroleum and other liquids: 5.841 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2019 est. Uganda: 10 Interesting Facts You Didn't Know - YouTube ), at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female0-14 years: 1.03 male(s)/female15-64 years: 0.89 male(s)/female65 years and over: 0.74 male(s)/femaletotal population: 0.95 male(s)/female (2023 est. Authors like Okot pBitek and Doreen Baingana have made significant contributions to the literary world. ), approximately 50,000 troops, including about 1,000-1,500 air and marine personnel; approximately 20-30,000 personnel in the Local Defense Units (2022), the UPDF's inventory is mostly older Russian/Soviet-era equipment with a limited mix of more modern Russian- and Western-origin arms; in recent years, Russia has been the leading supplier of arms to the UPDF; Uganda has a small but growing defense industry that can manufacture light armored vehicles and perform maintenance on some military equipment, including its Russian-made helicopters (2023), 18-25 years of age for voluntary military duty for men and women; 18-30 for those with degrees/diplomas in specialized fields such as medicine, engineering, chemistry, and education, or possess qualifications in some vocational skills; 9-year service obligation (2022), 6,500 Somalia (ATMIS; UNSOM); 250 Equatorial Guinea (training mission) (2023)note: in December 2022, Uganda sent approximately 1,000 troops to the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as part of a newly formed East Africa Community Regional Force (EACRF) to assist the DRC military against the rebel group M23, the UPDFs missions include defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uganda, assisting the civilian authorities in emergencies and natural disasters, and participating in socio-economic development projects; it supports the police in maintaining internal security and participates in African and UN peacekeeping missions; it is a key contributor to the East Africa Standby Force; the UPDF also has considerable political influence; it is constitutionally granted seats in parliament and is widely viewed as a key constituency for MUSEVENI; it has been used by MUSEVENI and his political party to break up rallies, raid opposition offices, and surveil rival candidatesthe UPDF is viewed as a well-equipped force with considerable operational experience; from 2012-2017, it led regional efforts to pursue the Lords Resistance Army (LRA), a small, violent group of Ugandan origin that conducted widespread attacks against civilians in much of Central Africa; Uganda intervened in the South Sudan civil war in 2013-2016, and UPDF forces have clashed with South Sudanese forces along the border as recently as 2020; it is also conducting operations along the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) against a DRC-based (and formerly based in western Uganda) Ugandan rebel group, the Allied Democratic Front (ADF), which has been designated by the US as the Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham in the DRC (see Appendix T); in December 2022, Uganda sent about 1,000 UPDF troops to the DRC as part of a regional force to assist the DRC Government in combating the M23 rebel group; in addition, elements of the UPDF are deployed in the northeast region of Karamoja against cattle rustlers and criminal gangsthe Land Force has 5 light infantry divisions, including one trained for mountain warfare; it also has independent armored, artillery, and motorized infantry brigades, as well as a marine force for patrolling Ugandas lakes and rivers; the special forces command has armor, artillery, commandos, motorized infantry, and presidential guard forces; the Air Force has small numbers of largely Russian-made combat aircraft and helicopters, Terrorist group(s): al-Shabaab; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham - Democratic Republic of Congo (ISIS-DRC)note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in Appendix-T, Uganda is subject to armed fighting among hostile ethnic groups, rebels, armed gangs, militias, and various government forces that extend across its bordersUganda-Kenya: Kenya and Uganda began a joint demarcation of the boundary in 2021; Uganda and Kenya both claim Migingo Island, a tiny island in the middle of Lake Victoria, which offers good fishingUganda-Rwanda: a joint technical committee established in 2007 to demarcate sections of the borderUganda-Democratic Republic of Congo(DROC): Uganda rejects the DROC claim to Margherita Peak in the Rwenzori mountains and considers it a boundary divide; there is tension and violence on Lake Albert over prospective oil reserves at the mouth of the Semliki River; Rukwanzi Island in Lake Albert is claimed by both countriesUganda-South Sudan: Government of South Sudan protests Lord's Resistance Army operations in western Equatorial State, displacing and driving out local populations and stealing grain storesUganda-Sudan: none identified, refugees (country of origin): 882,765 (South Sudan) (refugees and asylum seekers), 491,893 (Democratic Republic of the Congo), 69,535 (Somalia), 41,863 (Burundi), 32,871 (Eritrea), 23,457 (Rwanda), 7,787 (Ethiopia) (2023)stateless persons: 67,000 (2022), total population growth rate v. urban population growth rate, 2000-2030, Children under the age of 5 years underweight, International law organization participation, Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income, Household income or consumption by percentage share, installed generating capacity 115; consumption 131; exports 81; imports 107; transmission/distribution losses 108, Civil aircraft registration country code prefix, Military and security service personnel strengths, Military equipment inventories and acquisitions, Refugees and internally displaced persons, Center for the Study of Intelligence (CSI). )on alcohol and tobacco: 1% of household expenditures (2018 est. )34.67% of GDP (2018 est. It's a wild paradise. )2.77% (2020 est. Thanks for these details, Dorothy. ), total: 58,594 (2020 est. An ancient crossroads for various migrations, Uganda has as many as 65 ethnic groups that speak languages from three of Africas four major linguistic families. Also called the square-lipped rhinoceros, they are known to be quite sociable. 10 Fun facts about Uganda [not the boring ones] - The Adventurous Feet Yes, most visitors to Uganda require a visa. agriculture: 28.2% (2017 est. Kiira Motors is a green company that focuses on sustainability. 9. It is also the worlds second-largest freshwater lake after Lake Superior in North America. Source: Britannica, 6. 3. The Real Uganda Official Fact Sheet 1. The Culture Of Uganda - WorldAtlas Amin was defeated by Tanzania in 1978, and he fled to Saudi Arabia. There is no doubt as to why Churchill referred to it as the pearl of Africa.. ), English (official language, taught in schools, used in courts of law and by most newspapers and some radio broadcasts), Ganda or Luganda (most widely used of the Niger-Congo languages and the language used most often in the capital), other Niger-Congo languages, Nilo-Saharan languages, Swahili (official), Arabic, Protestant 45.1% (Anglican 32.0%, Pentecostal/Born Again/Evangelical 11.1%, Seventh Day Adventist 1.7%, Baptist .3%), Roman Catholic 39.3%, Muslim 13.7%, other 1.6%, none 0.2% (2014 est.). Its surface area is more than 26,000 square miles, Lake Victoria (named for Queen Victoria) is the biggest lake on the continent of Africa and the globes second-largest freshwater lake, trailing North Americas Lake Superior. When visiting Uganda, its important to have some local currency for day-to-day transactions. In Uganda, grasshoppers are widely eaten in and served as a delicacy either boiled or deep-fried. 1. Uganda is ethnologically diverse, with at least 40 languages in usage. )3,611.224 (2017 est. Yoweri Museveni | Biography, Profile, Election, & Facts Facts About Uganda's Population: Uganda Has over 44.27 Million People as of 2019 and over 56 tribes. The National Bird -The Gray-crowned Crane was chosen as Uganda's national bird because of its beauty and elegance. It borders DR Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan and Tanzania. Source: CIA World Fact Book, 2. Lake Bunyonyi, with its stunning scenery and numerous islands, is a popular tourist attraction in Uganda. Here are some fun facts about Uganda that might just impress you. )services: 50.7% (2017 est. Since its independence, Uganda has suffered significant instability. He died in 2003, of multiorgan failure. From lions and elephants to zebras and hippos, Uganda is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Discover the Pearl of Africa and create unforgettable memories in this captivating country. Source: Lonely Planet, 8. Maybe correct that bit. )3,727.069 (2018 est. With its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, Uganda is a captivating country in East Africa. )$2,200 (2020 est. Were Bryan & Dena welcome to our site. The country has endured a military coup, followed by a brutal dictatorship ending in 1979, disputed elections in 1980 and a five-year war that brought the current President Yoweri Museveni to power in 1986. As such, Uganda is known as the pearl of Africa after British Prime Minister Winston Churchill coined the phrase in reference to the countrys rich landscapes. Source: BBC Travel, 5. Lets get started! However the current president in Uganda during 1981-1986 with his soldiers they killed up to half a million people in one district that is fact that should be on here. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the main areas for gorilla trekking. Just a heads up about the water in Lake Victoria. Check out our language learning section. Because of this, Uganda is the one of most youthful countries worldwide. However, you will find that the euro (EUR), Great Britain pound (GBP), and the U.S. dollar (USD) are used frequently throughout Uganda. Fun and Serious Facts about Uganda - The Pearl of Africa Uganda is believed to have been inhabited for at least 50,000 years, and possibly as long as 100,000 years, according to stone tools recovered unearthed in the region. Source: University of Pennsylvania, 15. The Ugandan film industry has grown significantly in recent years, producing unique and captivating movies. And these are your facts about Uganda to make you want to visit someday. 100 Facts About Uganda, Top Amazing Facts on Uganda - Facts of Uganda Gen. Tito OKELLO seized power in a coup in 1985, but his rule was short-lived, with Yoweri MUSEVENI becoming president in 1986 after his insurgency captured the capital. ), revenues: $5.088 billion (2019 est. . 22 Interesting Facts About Uganda: Nature, Politics, Culture )3,718.249 (2020 est. 1. The Uganda Martyrs were a group of Christians who were persecuted for their faith in the late 19th century. Uganda averages about 1,100 metres (3,609 ft) above sea level, and while much of its border is lakeshore, Uganda is landlocked with no . The history of Uganda comprises the history of the people who inhabited the territory of present-day Uganda before the establishment of the Republic of Uganda, and the history of that country once it was established. In Uganda, the equator is located 75 km south of Kampala, where you can purchase memorabilia and watch cool equator water experiments. Uganda: A Modern History, 1981. Uganda - Wildlife, Primates, Birds | Britannica 33% of people have an account at a financial institution. Whether you are interested in exploring its national parks, immersing yourself in vibrant traditions, or enjoying adrenaline-pumping adventures, Uganda has something for everyone. As early as 1200, fertile soils and regular rainfall in the south fostered the formation of several large centralized kingdoms, including Buganda, from which the country derives its name. The largest such group is the Baganda who account for 16.5% of the total population. Culture of Uganda - Wikipedia Rwanda genocide: 100 days of slaughter - BBC News This is evidence that it is one of Africas safest countries. Check out our Uganda Food Guide (16 Must-Try Dishes for Your Visit). Have a fact to add? Growing to over three feet (90cm) tall, the birds are known for their striking crown of stiff golden feathers. Source: National Geographic, BBC News, 16. It is advisable to exchange some currency before your trip or upon arrival at the airport. Uganda is home to some seriously spectacular waterfalls - Sipi, Mpanga, and Sezibwa are just three of them! always alert me with updates about my lovely coutry uganda pearl of africa. From 1890, Britain began colonising the region and then, in 1894, Uganda became a British protectorate. Source: BBC News, 21. Key Facts. Additional characteristics show why this bird is named the national bird: Dont forget about the equatorial sun! 20 Interesting And Fun Facts About Uganda [Explained] - Nomads Unveiled In 2017, parliament approved the removal of presidential age limits, making it possible for MUSEVENI to remain in office for life. Uganda wildlife is among the most majestic in the world. Yes, Mount Rwenzori, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, offers opportunities for climbing and trekking. Uganda is one of the few countries where you can straddle the Equator, with markers indicating the geographical landmark. Not the colonial masters name. Lake Victoria, also called Victoria Nyanza, has an area of 69,484 sq km (26,828 sq mi). ), total population: 69.32 yearsmale: 67.08 yearsfemale: 71.62 years (2023 est. Swahili, the East African lingua franca, is not widespread as a language though it was made an official national language in September 2005. The country has implemented successful conservation strategies to protect the endangered mountain gorillas. Published: 22 Jun 2023. )$2,300 (2019 est. I also blog about photography at Storyteller Tech. Its actually a chapati wrapped filled with eggs, tomatoes, cabbage, onions, and peppers. Since then, security has become even more strict. The life expectancy in Uganda is 59.89 years. Additionally, you wont see women wearing shorts or short skirts. Located on the edge of the Equator, Uganda is positioned in south-central Africa, and bordered by the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kenya, Rwanda, Sudan and Tanzania. Heres how to choose the best sun protection hat for Africa. Official name: Republic of UgandaPopulation: 44,712,143Area: 241,038 sq kmCapital city: KampalaMajor languages: English, Ganda or Luganda, Swahili, ArabicMajor religions: Christian, MuslimTime zone: UTC+3 (East Africa Time) Source: CIA World Fact Book, 1. 0-14 years: 47.3% (male 11,439,303/female 11,136,111)15-64 years: 50.31% (male 11,335,543/female 12,679,044)65 years and over: 2.39% (2023 est.) Many are hesitant when it comes to visiting less developed countries, but theres enough evidence to see that Uganda is burgeoning in popularity and wealth because of its natural riches and accomplishments. )note: excludes gold, $6.241 billion (31 December 2016 est. The name Uganda comes from the Kingdom of Buganda and was adopted by the British as the name for their East African colony. Source: CIA World Fact Book, 17. The development of their own vehicle attests to that. However, if you find an error or have any questions, please contact us. 5. 2. Black stands for the Ugandan people, yellow for sunshine, and red for brotherhood. )female: 3.7% (2020 est. 10. The country experiences relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, with slight variations between regions. The park also contains 120 other species of mammal including forest elephants, 11 species of primate (including chimpanzees and LHoests monkeys), duikers, bushbucks, African golden cats and the rare giant forest hog as well as over 350 species of birds. Source: Lonely Planet, 11. It is recommended to check the visa requirements prior to your trip and apply in advance if necessary. )-$2.508 billion (2019 est. )exports: 0 metric tons (2020 est. Yes, Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where you can go on a gorilla trek. Luganda is the most common language. The currency used in Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Uganda is located in the heart of Sub-Saharan Africa and lies astride the Equator. Learn more about Lake Victoria, located in the southern part of the country. )exports: 299.2 million kWh (2019 est. 2. They were targeting members of the minority Tutsi community, as well as their. (male 484,782/female 655,169), total dependency ratio: 88.2youth dependency ratio: 85.1elderly dependency ratio: 3.2potential support ratio: 31.7 (2021 est.