Region: Eastern Africa

Capital: Kampala

Population: 26 404 543 (July 2004 est.)

Surface area: 241 038 square km

Currency: shilling

GDP per capita: $1 400 (2003 est.)

Historic background:
Uganda achieved independence from the UK 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. During the 1990s, the government promulgated non-party presidential and legislative elections.

During 1990-2001, the economy turned in a solid performance based on continued investment in the rehabilitation of infrastructure, improved incentives for production and exports, reduced inflation, gradually improved domestic security, and the return of exiled Indian-Ugandan entrepreneurs. Corruption within the government and slippage in the government's determination to press reforms raise doubts about the continuation of strong growth.

Economy – overview:
Uganda has substantial natural resources, including fertile soils, regular rainfall, and sizable mineral deposits of copper and cobalt. Agriculture is the most important sector of the economy, employing over 80% of the work force. Coffee accounts for the bulk of export revenues.

In 2000, Uganda qualified for enhanced Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) debt relief worth $1.3 billion and Paris Club debt relief worth $145 million. These amounts combined with the original HIPC debt relief added up to about $2 billion.

United Nations Membership date: 25 October 1962

New York Mission:
Permanent Mission of the Republic of Uganda to the United Nations, 336 East 45th Street, New York, N.Y. 10017
Telephone: 212-949-0110 / 0111 / 0112 / 0113
Fax: 212-687-4517