National Symbols
The Flag
From the top, a total of six horizontal stripes of black, yellow, red, black, yellow, and red.
Black symbolizes our African heritage and Uganda's fertile soil. Yellow is for the glorious sunny days, so characteristic of Uganda. Red symbolizes the red blood that runs in our veins, forming a common bond to all humankind.
The majestic crested crane (Regulorum gibbericeps) is Uganda's National Bird.
Cort of Arm
Standing on a green mound is a shield and two crossed spears. The green symbolizes Uganda's lush, green vegetation.
Supporting the shield are the Uganda Kob (Adenota kob Thomasi), symbolizing abundance of wildlife; and the Crested Crane (Regulorum gibbericeps), Uganda's national bird.
The shield and spears symbolize our readiness to defend our motherland against all enemies. Across the top of the shield are the waves of Lake Victoria, the second largest fresh water lake on earth.
In the centre of the shield is the sun, representing Uganda's glorious sunny days. At the bottom of the shield is the traditional African drum, used for dancing, ceremonial rituals, and for summoning the people to rally.
Coffee and cotton, Uganda's main cash crops, are displayed on the green mound; together with the River Nile, the world's longest river; which starts its 8 000 km (5 000 mile) journey in Uganda.
The Uganda motto is "For God and My Country"
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.