The Uganda Shilling (UGX)
The Uganda Shilling (UGX, USh) is the official currency of Uganda, a landlocked country in East Africa known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural diversity. The shilling is used across the country for daily transactions and plays an important role in Uganda’s economy.
Currency overview
The Uganda Shilling is managed by the Bank of Uganda. The central bank is responsible for printing and issuing currency, setting monetary policy, and keeping the economy stable.
The Uganda Shilling was introduced in 1966, replacing the East African Shilling. As of 2025, the currency is 59 years old. It was created to give Uganda its own national currency after gaining independence.
The Uganda Shilling is known for its colorful banknotes featuring local wildlife, cultural symbols, and historical landmarks. Coins are commonly used for smaller amounts. The use of both English and local design elements highlights Uganda’s culture and identity.
The symbol 'USh' stands for 'Uganda Shilling.' This helps distinguish it from other shilling-based currencies in East Africa like the Kenyan or Tanzanian shilling. The international code 'UGX' is used for global financial transactions.
Uganda Shilling Stats | |
|---|---|
Name | Uganda Shilling |
Symbol | UGX / USh |
Minor unit | Cent (no longer in use) |
Minor unit symbol | – |
Top UGX conversion | UGX/USD |
Top UGX Chart | UGX to USD, EUR, GBP |
Uganda Shilling Profile | |
|---|---|
Nicknames | Shilling, UGX |
Coins | 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000 shillings |
Bank notes | 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 shillings |
Central Bank | Bank of Uganda |
Users | Uganda |
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