Provisional data released by the Electoral Commission indicates wide regional variations in voter turnout across Uganda, with Ankole registering the highest participation rate in the ongoing electoral process.
According to figures published on January 17, 2026, Ankole recorded a turnout of 73 percent of registered voters, the highest in the country. Karamoja followed closely with 70 percent, while Sebei posted 69 percent, placing the three regions at the top of the turnout rankings.
Other regions that recorded strong participation include Kigezi at 65 percent, Tooro and Teso both at 63 percent, Madi at 60 percent, and Bukedi at 59 percent. Rwenzori registered a turnout of 58 percent, while Bugisu and Bunyoro each recorded 55 percent.
Mid-range turnout was reported in Lango at 54 percent and West Nile at 51 percent.
At the lower end of the scale, Busoga recorded a turnout of 46 percent, while Buganda and Acholi both registered 45 percent, the lowest among the regions captured in the provisional results.
The data, released under the “Uganda’s Bold Voice” election coverage initiative, provides an early snapshot of how Ugandans engaged with the ballot across different parts of the country.
Analysts say the figures reflect a combination of factors, including voter mobilisation, accessibility of polling stations, population density, and regional political dynamics.
Election observers note that historically high turnout in regions such as Ankole, Karamoja, and Kigezi has often been linked to strong local mobilisation structures and heightened interest in local leadership contests. Meanwhile, lower turnout in more urbanised or highly populated regions, such as Buganda, has in past elections been attributed to voter apathy, logistical challenges, and competing economic activities on polling day.
The Electoral Commission has emphasised that the figures remain provisional and subject to verification as tallying continues nationwide. Final turnout figures will be confirmed once the Commission completes validation and reconciliation of results from all polling stations.
