The culture of Uganda is woven from a remarkably diverse range of ethnic groups – the country recognizes 56 tribes and around nine indigenous communities, none of which forms a majority of the population. Lake Kyoga forms the northern boundary of the Bantu-speaking peoples who dominate much of east, central, and southern Africa – in Uganda including the Baganda and several other tribes. In the north live the Lango and the Acholi, speakers of Nilotic languages; to the east are the Iteso and Karamojong; the Bagisu of the Mount Elgon slopes speak Lumasaba, closely related to Kenya’s Luhya; and a small number of Batwa live in the rainforests of western Uganda.

Languages of Uganda

Around forty languages are in regular use. English became the official language at independence – Ugandan English is a lively local variant – and Swahili, the great lingua franca of East Africa, was approved as the second official national language in 2005. The most widely spoken local language is Luganda, dominant in Kampala and throughout the Buganda region, followed by Lusoga in the southeast and Runyankore-Rukiga in the southwest. French, Arabic, and German are also taught in institutions and used at embassies.

Religion in Uganda

Uganda is a predominantly Christian country – roughly 84% of the population – with the Roman Catholic Church holding the largest following, closely followed by the Anglican Church of Uganda, plus growing Evangelical and Pentecostal congregations. Muslims, primarily Sunni, represent about 12% of the population, with small communities following traditional religions, the Bahá’í faith, and others.

Experience this living heritage first-hand on a cultural safari, from Ndere Centre performances in Kampala to community visits across the country – read more about community tourism in Uganda.