Uganda is divided into four major regions: Central, Western, Eastern, and Northern. Each region is further subdivided into districts, which serve as the primary administrative units. Although the regions are significant for cultural and statistical purposes, the national government interacts directly with districts, meaning regions do not hold formal administrative authority today.
Historical Background
During British colonial rule (before 1962), the regions functioned as provinces headed by Provincial Commissioners. The Central Region corresponded to the Kingdom of Buganda, which maintained a degree of semi-autonomy under its monarch, the Kabaka. Instead of a Provincial Commissioner, Buganda was overseen by a Resident.
Since independence, Uganda has undergone multiple administrative reforms, leading to the creation of numerous districts. There were 56 districts in 2002, a number that had grown to 111 districts and Kampala city by 2010.
Population and Demographics
According to the 2002 census, the distribution of Uganda’s population by region was:
- Central Region: 27% of the national population
- Western Region: 26%
- Eastern Region: 25%
- Northern Region: 22%
Urbanization
In 2002, 12% of Ugandans (about 3 million people) lived in urban areas:
- Central Region: 54% of the urban population (mainly Kampala)
- Northern Region: 17%
- Western Region: 14%
- Eastern Region: 13%
Population Density (2002)
- Eastern Region: 226 persons/km²
- Central Region: 176 persons/km²
- Western Region: 126 persons/km²
- Northern Region: 65 persons/km²
Population and Area by Region
| Region | Population 1991 | Population 2002 | Population 2014 | Chief Town | Districts | Area (km²) | Area (mi²) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central | 4,843,594 | 6,575,425 | 9,529,227 | Kampala | 24 | 61,403.2 | 23,707.9 |
| Western | 4,547,687 | 6,298,075 | 8,874,862 | Mbarara | 26 | 55,276.6 | 21,342.4 |
| Eastern | 4,128,469 | 6,204,915 | 9,042,422 | Mbale | 32 | 39,478.8 | 15,242.8 |
| Northern | 3,151,955 | 5,148,882 | 7,188,139 | Gulu | 30 | 85,391.7 | 32,969.9 |
| Total | 16,761,705 | 24,227,297 | 34,634,650 | — | 112 | 241,550.3 | 93,263.1 |
Overview of the Four Regions
- Central Region: Encompasses the Kingdom of Buganda, Uganda’s most urbanized and economically dominant area, with Kampala as the capital.
- Western Region: A diverse agricultural hub, home to Uganda’s cattle corridor, fertile highlands, and tourism sites such as Rwenzori Mountains and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Eastern Region: Known for Mount Elgon, Lake Kyoga basin, fertile agricultural land, and cultural diversity.
- Northern Region: The largest by land area but sparsely populated, historically affected by conflict, yet rich in resources and home to Kidepo Valley National Park.
