Flag of Uganda
Uganda’s flag was adopted in 1962 the same year Uganda gained independence from Britain. The flag was designed by Grace Ibingira. The different colours represent different ideas. The black colour identifies Uganda as a black nation of Africa, yellow represents the abundant sunshine Uganda enjoys throughout the year being situated along the Equator and the red represents the blood of brotherhood with fellow Africans and the world at large. The grey crowned crane ( commonly known as Crested crane in Uganda) is the national bird with the colors of the flag. The Crane stands on one leg to indicate that Uganda is a nation that is moving forward, growing and not stationary.
Official Crest of Uganda
The coat of arms of Uganda was adopted in 1962 just like the flag reflecting the identity, aspirations and economic activity of Uganda. To the left is the Kob symbolizes the abundant wildlife found in Uganda’s several national parks, wildlife reserves, forest and community conservation areas. The Grey crowned crane encompasses all the national colours (Black, Yellow, Red) and is a gentle, peace loving and friendly bird which characterizes the Ugandan people. The Spear and shield are traditional defense tools in Uganda and Africa at large. The Sun just like in the flag represents the abundant sunshine found in Uganda. The drum is a symbol is a cultural symbol of the cultural heritage of the Ugandan people. The upper blue lines represent the abundant rainfall Uganda receives and the lower blue lines represent the abundant lakes and rivers (Uganda is 11% covered by lakes and rivers). We see cotton and coffee below the shield showing Uganda’s major cash crops at the time – not as much today. It ends with the motto – For God and My Country; shows Ugandans as people who fear God and love their country.
Uganda National bird – Grey crowned crane
The Grey crowned crane (commonly known as the Crested crane in Uganda) encompasses all the national colours (Black, Yellow, Red) in its entire body. It is a gentle, peace loving and friendly bird which characterises the Ugandan people. For anyone that has visited Uganda, you will agree that for whatever reason that brought you to Uganda e.g wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking or birding safaris, your best memory of Uganda will be the people who are friendly and very hospitable.
Ugandan National Anthem
Oh Uganda may God uphold thee,
We lay our future in thy hand,
United free for liberty
Together we’ll always stand.
Oh Uganda the land of freedom,
Our love and labour we give,
And with neighbours all,
At our country’s call
In peace and friendship we’ll live.
Oh Uganda! the land that feeds us,
By sun and fertile soil grown,
For our own dear land,
We shall always stand,
The pearl of Africa’s Crown
