Gulu District

Gulu District

General Information
Name	Gulu District
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	District
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates
Map
Population
Total
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

Gulu District is a district in the Northern Region of Uganda. It is named after its main municipal, administrative, and commercial center, the city of Gulu.

Geography

Gulu District is bordered by Lamwo District to the north, Pader District to the east, Oyam District to the south, and Amuru District to the west. The district headquarters are located approximately 333 kilometers (207 mi) by road, north of Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda.

History

Gulu District was originally part of the larger Acholi District, which was divided into smaller districts over time. The district has been significantly affected by the Lord's Resistance Army insurgency, which led to widespread displacement and suffering among the local population.

Demographics

The district is predominantly inhabited by the Acholi people, who speak the Acholi language. The population is primarily rural, with agriculture being the main economic activity.

Economy

Agriculture is the backbone of the economy in Gulu District. The main crops grown include maize, millet, sorghum, cassava, and groundnuts. Livestock farming is also practiced, with cattle, goats, and poultry being the most common.

Education

Gulu District is home to several educational institutions, including Gulu University, which offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The district also has numerous primary and secondary schools.

Health

The district has several health facilities, including Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, which serves as the main healthcare provider in the region. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, maternal and child health, and treatment for infectious diseases.

Infrastructure

The district is served by a network of roads, with the main highway connecting Gulu to Kampala. The Gulu Airport provides air transport services, although it primarily handles domestic flights.

Culture

The Acholi people have a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and storytelling playing a significant role in their society. The district hosts several cultural festivals and events throughout the year.

Challenges

Gulu District faces several challenges, including poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and the effects of past conflicts. Efforts are ongoing to improve the living conditions and promote development in the region.

Also see

• Acholi people
• Northern Region, Uganda
• Lord's Resistance Army insurgency
• Gulu University