October 9 marks 55 years since Uganda's independence in 1962. The country's economy has seen many changes during this time, affected by periods of political instability, civil war, fluctuating global commodity prices, and various economic reforms. Trends in recent years are positive, although some key challenges remain.
Economic data for the early years after Uganda's independence is scarce. But economic growth appears to have been impressive for the first eight years. Agriculture dominated the economy, with cotton and coffee comprising 76% of exports. Five years after Uganda's independence it joined forces with Kenya and Tanzania to form the East African Community, with the intention of creating a common market.
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