Uganda

Uganda is a country in East Africa. It is called the Pearl of Africa because of its beautiful green landscape. Uganda is one of the best places to see mountain gorillas in the wild. The source of the Nile River is in Uganda.

Land and People

About 47 million people live in Uganda. The capital is Kampala. Uganda has Lake Victoria, the second largest freshwater lake in the world. The country has thick forests, mountains, and wide savannas.

Old drawing showing doctors helping a mother in Uganda.
Old drawing showing doctors helping a mother in Uganda. (Wikimedia Commons)

Culture and Fun Facts

Uganda is home to about half the world's mountain gorillas. The Nile River starts at Lake Victoria in Uganda. Matoke, cooked green bananas, is a common food. Ugandans love soccer and are also known for their long-distance runners.

Fun Facts

  • About half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas live in Uganda.
  • The source of the Nile River is at Lake Victoria in Uganda.
  • Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world.

Did You Know?

Mountain gorillas in Uganda are gentle giants that live in families led by a big male called a silverback. Only about 1,000 mountain gorillas are left in the world. Visitors can trek into the forests to watch them, but they must stay quiet and keep their distance.