Landlocked Uganda sits in Northeastern Africa, bordered by Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, DR Congo, and South Sudan. Uganda, a former British colony, was peaceful and prosperous when it gained its independence in 1962. During the 1970s and 1980s, though, the country was caught up in a civil war and many people died or left the country. In recent years, the country has enjoyed a more stable government.
Victoria Lake in Uganda
Uganda includes wide, open savannahs, misty mountains and plateaus. The endangered mountain gorilla makes its home here. Lake Victoria, the second largest lake in the world and the largest lake in Africa, sits at the bottom of Uganda. Many people earn their living on the lake through fishing. Tourists come to visit the lake too.
Fun Facts
- 43 million people live in Uganda.
- Kampala is the capital of Uganda.
- The Ugandan shilling is the currency used here.
- The country has 93,072 square miles of land.
- The official languages include English and Swahili, but people also speak Luganda and various other languages.
- The life expectancy in Uganda is 59.89 years.
Vocabulary
- Landlock: surrounded by land; without access to the sea
- Prosperous: having resources, food and health
- Stable: predictable, balanced
- Savannah: grassy plains
- Misty: foggy
Learn More
Visit National Geographic to learn more about Uganda.
Extra Credit
Question: What are the chief industries and exports here?
Answer: People grow many crops, including sugar cane for sugar, cotton for clothing, tobacco and tea. People raise cattle and fish.
