Introduction to Uganda

An Introduction to Uganda

Uganda is no longer a place of terror located in the centre of black Africa that once was. Deposed dictators thumbed their noses at the world whilst running a mock with the country’s economics they pretended to govern. Modern Uganda may not be a perfect democracy; however, the colonial powers that drew lines across the continent of Africa to satisfy their own needs should have foreseen the inevitable. In their rush to absolve themselves of the responsibility for the consequences enacted in those youthful years of political and social independence.

Uganda is now a country reconciled with its past and moving forward with a bright future. There is a well-educated section of the population and a massive appetite for education by the country’s youth. Makerere University is held in high regard domestically and internationally, with many students continuing studies abroad after completing degrees there.

The economy’s backbone is the coffee industry, which has seen turbulent times in recent years. The local currency, the Shilling, has seen continued depreciation against all major currencies. The tourism industry took a heavy knock after the massacre of 8 tourists in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in 1999 by rebels from DR Congo. The government has taken stock of the security situation, and a high priority placed to ensure the safety of visitors to the country. Tourism has great potential as a foreign exchange earner for the country. Uganda has some of the continents major attractions with facilities to meet visitors’ requirements, whatever their budget.

The diversity of Uganda’s peoples and the countries attractions will continue to draw visitors to this beautiful piece of Africa, straddling the equator. For those considering a visit, you will be rewarded by national parks untrampled by the masses, rare and endangered animals that not seen elsewhere on the continent, spectacular birdlife, trekking on the volcanoes of the Virunga and Mt. Elgon, and the ‘piste de la resistance’ the ‘Mountains of the Moon’ the Rwenzori Mountains, a proclaimed a world heritage site.