Why do we have a uvula?

Not fully understood: All the mammals do not have uvula ,it helps phonation ( voice } gauge reflex , salivation , it is some times removed for snoring in sleep apnea .

Uvula: Greetings. The uvula lies in the posterior pharynx. It's purpose is thought to help direct food down into the hypo pharynx as we swallow and prevent nasal regurgitation of food. It is also thought to aid in themucus distribution, help give our voice a unique character and sound and to help us sense and feel out swallow. If it senses a wrong movement, gagging will occur to help prevent choking.

Back of the mouth: That thing having down in the back of your mouth is the uvula.

Hangin: The thing hanging down in the back of your mouth.