Why Is Uganda Called the Pearl of Africa?
The nickname is widely credited to Winston Churchill, who visited in 1907 and wrote about Uganda in My African Journey.
Uganda is called the Pearl of Africa. The phrase is commonly attributed to Winston Churchill, who travelled through the protectorate in 1907 and described it in his 1908 book My African Journey, calling Uganda the pearl of Africa for its beauty, variety and fertility.
The label has stuck because Uganda packs mountains, lakes, rainforest, savannah and the source of the Nile into a compact country. See beautiful places in Uganda and tourist attractions in Uganda.
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At a glance
- Nickname: Pearl of Africa
- Credited to: Winston Churchill, 1907-08
- Source: My African Journey (1908)
- Why it fits: Varied landscapes and wildlife
The Origin of the Nickname
Churchill travelled as an under-secretary of state for the colonies and wrote of the lush landscapes and abundant life he saw. The phrase was later adopted widely in tourism and national identity.
Why It Still Fits
- Snow-capped Rwenzori peaks and volcanoes.
- Great lakes and the Nile.
- Rainforest with gorillas and chimpanzees.
- Savannah with elephants, lions and giraffes.
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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
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