Uganda

Girl collecting water.

Girl collecting water. © Giacomo Pirozzi (Panos)

Independence for Uganda in 1962 was followed by a long period of political violence and state failure. The present government under President Museveni has been in power since 1986.

While Uganda has experienced significant economic growth for more than a decade, it remains one of the poorest countries in the world. In addition, northern Uganda has been seriously affected by the 21-year insurgency by the Lord’s Resistance Army, which has led to the displacement of approximately 1.3 million people. In addition, the national prevalence of HIV/AIDs remains a huge and ongoing problem.

Key facts

Population: 28.2 million
Average life expectancy: 50 years
Average per capita income: US$300
Total UK aid received in 2008/09: £72.1m

Find out more in Key facts: Uganda

Major challenges

DFID’s main challenges in Uganda are:

  • conflict
  • poverty
  • HIV/AIDS.

Find out more in Major challenges: Uganda

How We Have Helped

Men fight against domestic violence in Uganda

Men fight against domestic violence in Uganda

Peter used to beat his wife - but now he's helping to stamp out domestic violence among his neighbours

Clean water makes for good living in Uganda

Clean water makes for good living in Uganda

How clean flowing water has transformed life in a Ugandan town