Uganda Ranked 116th in Global Happiness Report

Uganda has landed in the 116th position globally and 19th in Africa in the latest 2025 World Happiness Report released by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The annual study, which draws on data from 2022 to 2024, ranks 147 countries based on well-being indicators like income, life expectancy, social support, freedom, and levels of trust in institutions.

Although Uganda trails behind regional neighbor Kenya (115th globally), the report acknowledges the country’s strong community bonds and cultural pride. However, persistent issues such as youth unemployment, limited access to quality education, and governance challenges continue to weigh down the nation’s happiness score.

Across the continent, Mauritius tops the chart as Africa’s happiest country, followed closely by Libya. Meanwhile, countries like Chad, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of Congo fall at the bottom of the global list, with widespread poverty, insecurity, and weak infrastructure contributing to the low rankings.

On the world stage, Finland remains unbeaten as the happiest country for the eighth straight year, followed by Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden—all known for high standards of living, strong governance, and community trust.

Experts suggest that for Uganda to climb the ranks, investments should focus on:

• Expanding access to quality healthcare and schools.
• Boosting job opportunities for young people.
• Promoting transparency and good governance.