What Language Do They Speak in Uganda?
Facts last checked 9 October 2026.
Uganda has 2 official languages: English, Swahili. English is also an official language in 58 other countries worldwide.
Learn some English before you go
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We are also a member of the CJ Affiliate and AWIN affiliate networks. Links below are affiliate links.
English Phrasebook & Dictionary
The essentials for ordering food, asking directions and being polite.
Languages of Uganda at a glance
| Official languages | English, Swahili |
|---|---|
| Number of official languages | 2 |
| Countries on this site where English is official | 59 |
| People (demonym) | Ugandan |
| Capital | Kampala |
| Internet domain | .ug |
Other countries where English is official
English is also an official language in 58 other countries covered here:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Botswana
- Cameroon
- Canada
- Dominica
- Eritrea
- Eswatini
- Fiji
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Grenada
- Guyana
- India
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- Kenya
- Kiribati
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Malawi
…and 34 more.
Languages of neighbouring countries
| DR Congo | French, Kikongo, Lingala, Swahili, Tshiluba |
|---|---|
| Kenya | Swahili, English |
| Rwanda | Kinyarwanda, English, French |
| South Sudan | English |
| Tanzania | Swahili, English |
Uganda in context
- Uganda covers 241,550 km², making it the 79th largest of the 196 countries on this site.
- Its population density of about 190 people per km² ranks 54th of 196 (1st = most crowded).
- It shares a land border with 5 countries: DR Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania.
- Uganda is landlocked, with no direct coastline.
- With 45,905,417 people, Uganda holds about 10.5% of the population of Eastern Africa.
- With 2 official languages, Uganda has more than most countries on this site.
- Traffic drives on the left, and calendars start the week on Monday.
- Uganda is a member state of the United Nations.
Compare Uganda
Useful phrases for visitors to Uganda
Everyday Swahili phrases you will hear and use in Uganda:
| English | Swahili |
|---|---|
| Hello | Habari |
| Thank you | Asante |
| Please | Tafadhali |
| Goodbye | Kwaheri |
| Yes | Ndiyo |
| No | Hapana |
Spellings can vary by region, and some languages use different forms for formal or informal speech. Even a simple greeting in the local language is usually appreciated.
Languages in Uganda — FAQ
What language do they speak in Uganda?
The official languages of Uganda are English and Swahili.
How many official languages does Uganda have?
Uganda has 2 official languages: English, Swahili.
Is English spoken anywhere else?
English is also an official language in 58 other countries.
Travelling to Uganda?
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We are also a member of the CJ Affiliate and AWIN affiliate networks. Links below are affiliate links.
This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Last updated: