Uganda

The colonial boundaries created by Britain to delimit Uganda grouped together a wide range of ethnic groups with different political systems and cultures. These differences prevented the establishment of a working political community after independence was achieved in 1962. The dictatorial regime of Idi AMIN (1971-79) was responsible for the deaths of some 300,000 opponents; guerrilla war and human rights abuses under Milton OBOTE (1980-85) claimed at least another 100,000 lives. The rule of Yoweri MUSEVENI since 1986 has brought relative stability and economic growth to Uganda. During the 1990s, the government promulgated non-party presidential and legislative elections.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 30,262,610 (July 2007 est.)

Nationality (Noun): Ugandan(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Ugandan

Official Language(s): English

Major Languages Spoken: Arabic, English, Swahili

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): Republic of Uganda

Country Name (short form): Uganda

Country Name (local long form): none

Country Name (local short form): none

Name of Capital: Kampala

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC+3 (8 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Uganda: Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Sudan, Congo Dem. Rep. of

Land Area: 199710 sq km

Water Area: 36330 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly smaller than Oregon

Total Land Boundry: 2,698 km

Coastline: 0 km (landlocked)

National Holiday: Independence Day, 9 October (1962)

International Phone Code: 256

Currency Code: Ugandan shilling (UGX)

Internet Country Code: .ug

US Embassy Location: 1577 Ggaba Road, Kampala

US Embassy Mailing Address: P. O. Box 7007, Kampala