Uganda

Full name: Republic of Uganda

Population: 33.8 million (UN, 2010)

Capital: Kampala

Area: 241,038 sq km (93,072 sq miles)

Major languages: English (official), Swahili (official), Luganda, various Bantu and Nilotic languages

Major religions: Christianity, Islam

Life expectancy: 54 years (men), 55 years (women) (UN)

Monetary unit: 1 Ugandan shilling = 100 cents

Main exports: Coffee, fish and fish products, tea; tobacco, cotton, corn, beans, sesame

GNI per capita: US $500 (World Bank, 2010)

Internet domain: .ug

International dialling code: +256

Since the late 1980s Uganda has rebounded from the abyss of civil war and economic catastrophe to become relatively peaceful, stable and prosperous.

Business and Meetings

A handshake is the appropriate greeting in business settings. Men should wait for women to extend their hand. If a female doesn’t extend her hand, males can nod their head or bow.
Title such as Mr. or Mrs. are acceptable, and are usually followed by a surname. Last names include a traditional tribal name and a Christian name.
Small talk is customary before getting down to business. Be prepared for introductory conversations, and it’s okay to ask about family and backgrounds. Business relationships are built over time.
Ugandan business people are sticklers for protocol when giving a speech. Speeches are conservative and informal, and preceded by greetings and acknowledgments.
Business decisions are made by a group, and because Ugandan business people seek external advice, it can take a while to reach a decision.
When negotiating, Ugandans will mirror your approach. Therefore, if you’re flexible, they will respond in kind.
Punctuality is important in business settings. However, it is okay for senior members of a company to arrive late to meetings or events.
Ugandans communicate indirectly. They may use stories and proverbs to express a point. Although humour is acceptable, sarcasm can be easily misunderstood, and should be avoided.
Most business people in Uganda speak English.
Dress conservative when attending a business meeting at a restaurant or home.

Business Cards
There are no rituals surrounding the giving of business cards. However, you should treat a business card with respect.

Business Attire
Ugandans who dress well are respected. Formal attire is customary in business settings. This includes a suit for men and women. In rural areas, males may wear a collared shirt and pants. For women, revealing or tight clothing is inappropriate. Women should also limit accessories; and if working in a rural area, skirts should fall below the knee.

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