History of Uganda

History of Uganda

Discover the heritage and history of Uganda with our travel tips.

Human settlement in Uganda started as early as the 13th century, when the Bacwezie, an indigenous Bantu group, settled around Lake Victoria. Other settlers arrived in the 19th century, first the Arab slave traders who introduced Kabaka, the country’s the largest tribe, to Islam, followed by British and French missionaries. These three groups fought against each other for control of Uganda, and when several young boys were martyred at the royal court, the Christian church flourished.

The kingdom of Buganda (an area within what is modern Uganda) became a British Protectorate in 1894. In 1962, Uganda became independent, however, this did not ensure peace within the country. A struggle for power by Milton Obote forced Kabake into exile in the UK in 1966. Welcomed by all, Idi Amin then overthrew Obote in 1971, however his economic policies were destructive and he began using terror to reign. With the aid of neighboring Tanzania, Amin was overthrown eight years later.

Obote regained power but a guerrilla group called the National Resistance Army (NRA), led by Yoweri Museveni, started a five year civil war that brought much heartache and bloodshed, particularly at the Luweero Triangle.

Uganda was in despair but Museveni successfully seized power in 1986. Since then, attention has been on restoring infrastructure and national identity, as you will notice during one of our Uganda tours. Many child soldiers who were abducted during the conflict are now rehabilitated, while a democratic approach has been established from village to parliament level.

Discover the rise of this wonderful destination – especially the rare and unique experience of gorilla trekking in Uganda.