What Language Is Spoken in Uganda? Official Languages and Local Tongues

Uganda's official languages are English and Swahili. English is used in government, courts, schools and business and is the language you will use on safari, while Swahili is a national language with a smaller everyday role in Uganda than in Kenya or Tanzania.

Beyond the official languages, Uganda has more than 40 indigenous languages. The most widely spoken include Luganda in the central region, Runyankore-Rukiga in the south-west, Lusoga and Ateso in the east, and Luo languages such as Acholi and Lango in the north. For etiquette and greetings see languages and cultural etiquette in Uganda.

This guide is part of our Uganda facts and travel information guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris.

Official Languages: English and Swahili

English is the working language of the state and of most hotels, lodges and tour operators, so visitors can travel comfortably without learning anything else. Swahili was adopted as a national and official language to support regional integration; it is understood by many security staff and in some border areas but is not the first language of most Ugandans.

Local Languages by Region

• Central: Luganda, the language of the Buganda kingdom and the most common language in Kampala.
• West and south-west: Runyankore, Rukiga, Rutooro, Runyoro and Rukonzo.
• East: Lusoga, Lugisu, Ateso and Lugwere.
• North: Acholi, Lango, Alur and Lugbara, plus Karamojong in the north-east.

These names also refer to peoples; see tribes and ethnic groups in Uganda.

Useful Words for Visitors

• Webale (Luganda): thank you.
• Oli otya? (Luganda): how are you?
• Jambo / Asante (Swahili): hello / thank you.
• Agandi (Runyankore): how are you?

Learning one greeting is appreciated. Your guide will happily teach you more on the drive.

Planning a trip? Tell us your dates and we will build a Uganda safari around them.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team