Which Country is Known As the Pearl of Africa?

Africa has a lot of beautiful countries but one out of them is known for its green hills, big lakes and rare animals. This country is so beautiful that a British leader gave it a special nickname that too a hundred years ago. The country is home to the remaining mountain gorillas and known as the pearl of Africa. Do you know which country is that? Let’s find out. 

Which Country is Known As the Pearl of Africa?

Uganda is given the title of Pearl of Africa and it is mainly due to its natural beauty. The country has lush green hills, thick forests and large lakes. Moreover it is home to many rare animals and birds. This mix of wildlife and greenery was the reason that early visitors felt like that they found something precious and rare like a pearl. That is why the name stuck and Uganda got the nickname of Pearl of Africa. 

Uganda At A Glance

Who Named Uganda As the Pearl of Africa?

The nickname is usually linked to Winston Churchill who became the Prime Minister of Britain in the later years. In 1907, he visited the country and was quite amazed by what he saw and wrote about it in his 1908 book which was called My African Journey. In the book, he described Uganda's scenery, wildlife, and colours magnificent and called it the Pearl of Africa.

However, there is a debate around this term as historians also believe that Churchill was not the first person who used this term. Henry Morton Stanley also visited Uganda and that too before Churchill. It is believed that he used the same phrase in the 1890s. However, Churchill’s book made the nickname quite famous. 

Interesting Facts About Uganda

• The country is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and they are found mainly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. 

• Uganda is right on the equator. 

• Uganda has snow covered mountains which is unique as it sits on the equator. 

• The River Nile starts from Uganda.

• Uganda is home to over 1,060 bird species and tree-climbing lions.