Complete Flags of the World

South America

Brazil

Ratio: 7:10 Adopted: November 15, 1889 Usage: National and Civil

The national Green recalls
motto meaning, the Brazilian
“Order and Progress” rain forest

The most recent Each star represents a
stars were added to state in the Federation

the Canis Major Yellow represents the
constellation country’s mineral resources

South America Brazil belonged to Portugal until 1822 when it
became an independent kingdom, and later an
6ENEZUELA empire. It formed a federal republic in 1889.
"2!:),

0ARAGUAY

The green field and yellow lozenge with stars of varying sizes, although
were part of the flag adopted in the size of star does not reflect the
1822 when independence was first importance of the state. In 1992,
achieved and the empire was new stars were added to the
declared. In 1889, the imperial constellation of Canis Major in the
arms were replaced by a view of lower left section of the sky. The
the night sky as it appeared over country’s national motto, “Ordem
Rio de Janeiro when the republic e Progresso” meaning, “Order and
was formed. Each of the stars in Progress” appears on a band across
the constellation represents a state the center of the night sky.
of the Federation, including the
Federal District. These have been THE NATIONAL CAPITAL
altered from time to time, most
recently in 1992 when the number In Brasília, the capital city since
of stars increased to 27. 1960, stands one of the world’s
tallest flagpoles, on which flies an
THE CONSTELLATIONS enormous national flag.

The constellations on the flag are Brazil also has flags for the
represented in a realistic manner, President, the Ministry of Marine,
and a naval Jack.

47

South America

Brazil: State flags

Many of the flags recall historical events, or the formation of the federal republic.
The date of accession is given below the state name.

THE FEDERAL DISTRICT ACRE
1960 1962

The flag of the Federal District dates from Adopted by the republic declared in 1899,
1969. The green rectangle contains four when Acre was still part of Bolivia, the flag
arrows representing the balance of was retained by the state and the star was
centralization and devolution in Brazil. dded to recall its joining the Federation.

ALAGOAS AMAPÁ
1889 1989

Based on the flag of 1894, this new The flag was adopted in 1984 for the
version was instituted in 1963. In the erritory and retained for the state. It
center is the arms, also originally dating ses all the national colors, together
back to 1894. It recalls various aspects of with an outline of the fortress of
the state’s industry. Macapá, the state capital.

AMAZONAS BAHIA
1889 1889

The flag dates from the local uprising of The flag dates back to the uprisings of
1897. The stars stand for the 25 789 and 1798, which are recalled by
municipalities, with the large one for he white triangle. The flag in this form
Manaus, the state capital. The flag was was first adopted in 1889, when Bahia
regularized in 1982. oined the Federation.

CEARÁ ESPÍRITO SANTO
1889 1889

The flag was instituted in 1922 and is The flag was created in 1947. The
very similar to the national flag. The ortuguese motto meaning—“Work
arms depicts an allegorical landscape nd Trust”—is that of the Jesuits, and
surrounded by stars. It dates from 1897 he pink and blue represent the local
and was revised in 1967. vening sky.

48

South America

GOIÁS MARANHÃO
1889 1889

The flag is based on those promoted for The flag, adopted in 1889, features
the republic in 1889. This version has he star, which represents the state
five stars for the Southern Cross similar n the national flag, while the stripes
to those in the national arms. and for its ethnic mix.

MATO GROSSO MATO GROSSO DO SUL
1889 1977

The flag is based on the national flag, The design emerged from a
but with local interpretations of the ompetition held in 1978, after the
color arrangement and one star for ew state was formed. The flag was
the state. It was adopted in 1890. nstituted in 1979.

MINAS GERAIS PARÁ
1889 1889

The flag contains a Masonic triangle ased on a republican flag, it dates
of the Inconfidência Mineira (miners revolt) rom 1898. The star is taken from the
of 1789, standing for equality. ne for Pará on the national flag.

PARAÍBA PARANÁ
1889 1889

The flag recalls Vargas’ revolution in The flag contains an emblem like
1930. Nego (“I deny it”) refers to the he national flag, bearing the Southern
assassination of the state president. Cross and name of the state.

PERNAMBUCO PIAUÍ
1889 1889

This is the flag of the Pernambuco ased on the colors of the national
revolution of 1817, which later became the ag, in this instance it only has one
flag of the state when the events of 1817 ar representing the state of Piauí.
were celebrated. t was adopted in 1922.

49

South America

Brazil: State flags

RIO DE JANEIRO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE
1975 1889

The state was reconstituted in 1975 Dating from 1957, the flag uses the
to include the state of Guanabara. rms granted in 1909, thus making it
The new state took over the emblems ne of the newest flags of the
of the former state of Rio de Janeiro. riginal states.

RIO GRANDE DO SUL RONDÔNIA
1889 1981

The flag dates from the revolution of Rondônia’s flag uses the four
1836, which created the Republic of Rio ational colors and a single star
Grande do Sul. It was re-adopted in 1889, ymbol. It was adopted in 1981
the arms were added in 1891. fter a design competition.

RORAIMA SANTA CATARINA
1989 1889

The flag, adopted when the territory The red and white flag precedes
became a federal state, uses the national he republic. It was most recently
colors and star, with a red line representing egularized in 1953, when the arms
the Equator. were placed in the center.

SÃO PAULO SERGIPE
1889 1889

The flag was created in 1888 at the The flag was created in the late
start of the republican revolution, 9th century and adopted in 1920.
and revived in 1932, with 13 stripes. n 1951 the stars were repositioned.

TOCANTINS
1989

After achieving statehood, a flag and
arms were adopted, using blue and
white from the national colors.

50

South America

Chile

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 18, 1817 Usage: National and Civil

The flag is modeled White symbolizes the
on the US Stars and snow of the Andes
Stripes

Blue represents the
clear Andean skies

Red is for the blood
shed for freedom

South America

"OLIVIA Chile was freed from Spanish rule in 1818, largely
through the efforts of José de San Martín, leader of
#(),% 5RUGUAY the Army of the Andes.

!RGENTINA

Adopted in 1817, after San Martín’s THE PRESIDENT’S STANDARD
victory at Chacabuco, the national
flag of Chile was preceded by at least The flag of the President is the
two other versions during the early same as the national flag, with the
years of separatism. The current flag national arms in the center. The coat
was based on the Stars and Stripes. of arms dates from 1834. It is
supported by an huemal deer and a
The white star was reserved for condor. The crest is formed from
use only on the official flag until the feathers of the rhea bird. The
1864, when the starred flag was motto—“Por La Razon o La Fuerza”
made official for all purposes. means “By reason or by force.”

THE PRESIDENT’S A crest of feathers
STANDARD from the rhea bird

An huemal deer, The condor is a common
of the high Andes symbol on South
American arms

51

South America

Bolivia

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 30, 1851 Usage: National and Civil

The order of the Red recalls valor
stripes was changed
to red, yellow, Yellow reflects
green in 1851. Bolivia’s mineral
Red and green were reserves
retained from the
flag of 1825

Green symbolizes
fertility

South America

0ERU "RAZIL Bolivia, originally known as Upper Peru, was
named after Simón Bolívar who supervised its
"/,)6)! secession from Spain in 1825.

#HILE 0ARAGUAY

The flag of 1825 had three stripes of last altered in 1851, when the order
green-red-green, with five gold stars of the stripes was changed to red,
within laurel wreaths. These stood yellow, green.
for the original five departments.
The official flag still has the arms
A NEW TRICOLOR in the center. It was regulated in
1888 and depicts Mount Potosí, an
In 1826, the flag was altered to three alpaca, a wheatsheaf, and a breadfruit
equal stripes of yellow, green and red tree. The oval ring contains nine
with the arms in the center. It was stars for the nine departments.

ARMS OF BOLIVIA As on many South
American arms, the
The flags and crest is a condor
weapons represent the
people’s willingness to The nine stars represent
Bolivia’s nine departments
defend the state

The allegorical scene
on the shield represents

Bolivia’s agricultural
and industrial wealth

52

South America

Paraguay

Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: November 25, 1842 Usage: National and Civil

The colors On the reverse,
were influenced the flag is
by the French charged with
Tricolore, which the Treasury
had become Seal
a symbol of
liberation

The Star of May is used as a symbol of
freedom on many South American flags

South America

"OLIVIA "RAZIL Paraguay declared its independence from
Spain in 1811 and has remained an independent
0!2!'5!9 republic ever since.

!RGENTINA

The colors of the flag and the power from 1814–40. During his
Star of May emblem date from regime one side of the flag carried
the Declaration of Independence. the arms of Spain and the other the
A number of variant designs existed arms of Asunción.
prior to the current design, which
was regularized in 1842. The The current emblems, adopted in
current flag has a separate emblem 1821, but not officially sanctioned
on each side, a practice dating from until 1842, are the national arms on
the time of José de Francia, in the front (obverse) and the Treasury
Seal on the back (reverse).

STATE ARMS ON THE OBVERSE TREASURY SEAL ON THE REVERSE

The Star of May The motto,“Paz y The Cap of
recalls the date of Justicia” (“Peace Liberty guarded
and Justice”) by a lion
independence

Name of
the state

53

South America Blue and white
are also the
Uruguay
national colors
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 11, 1830 Usage: National and Civil of Argentina,

The Sun of May from which this
has been a national flag derives

emblem since the
19th century

The nine stripes represent
the nine departments

South America Historically a Spanish colony, Uruguay was
annexed to Brazil and then to Argentina before
"RAZIL becoming fully independent in 1830.

525'5!9
!RGENTINA

The colors, blue and white, and the remained in use after Uruguay was
Sun of May on the current flag come annexed to Brazil in 1821.
from the Argentinian flag.
When full independence was
THE FLAG OF ARTIGAS assumed, the present form of the
flag was instituted. The nine stripes
The colors were brought to Uruguay represent the nine departments.
by José Artigas, who led the The Sun of May has been used as
movement for separation. His flag the national emblem since 1815 and
was blue and white striped, with a now appears as the crest on the coat
red diagonal. Variations of this flag of arms.

FLAG OF ARTIGAS

This flag was used as Red represents the
a Jack for naval vessels “Banda Oriental”
until the late 1990s. (the “East Bank”)
The colors derive from of Uruguay
those of Argentina’s flag

54

South America

Argentina The sun was
added in 1818
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 12, 1812 Usage: National and Civil to create a flag
for state use
Blue and
white were
formed
into a flag
by Manuel
Belgrano, the
leader of the
revolution

Light blue and white are from the cockades used
by revolutionaries in 1812

South America

"OLIVIA "RAZIL Argentina achieved its independence from Spain
0ARAGUAY in 1816. Liberation demonstrations began in Buenos
Aires on May 25, 1810.
5RUGUAY

!2'%.4).!

At his encampment at Rosario in THE SUN FLAG
1812, the revolutionary commander,
Manuel Belgrano needed a flag. He In 1818, the sun emblem was added
devised one, using the sky-blue and to the national flag forming the state
white colors of the cockades worn by flag flown on government buildings
supporters of independence. This flag and military bases. It is also the
was used in battle and. although Argentine naval ensign. The sun is
initially rejected by the provisional based on coins issued in Buenos Aires
government, it later became the in 1813. The tradition of the “Sun of
national flag. May,” breaking through white clouds
in a blue sky has no historical basis.

ARMS OF ARGENTINA The sun symbolizes
the dawn of a new era
and a new nation

The Cap of Liberty

A wreath of laurel Sky-blue and white
are the national colors

55

Africa

Morocco

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 17, 1915 Usage: National and Civil

Red represents the
descendants of the
Prophet Muhammad

The Seal of Solomon
was added in 1915

Africa

Spain Morocco has been independent since 1956,
becoming a kingdom in 1957. The state has
MOROCCO occupied Western Sahara since 1975.

Western Algeria
Sahara

Mauritania Mali

Red has considerable historic THE COLONIAL ERA
significance in Morocco, proclaiming
the descent of the royal family from While Morocco was under French
the Prophet Muhammad via Fatima, and Spanish control, the red flag with
the wife of Ali, the fourth Caliph. the seal in the center remained in use
Red is also the color that was used but only inland, its use at sea was
by the Sherifs of Mecca and the prohibited. When independence was
Imams of Yemen. restored in 1956 it once again became
the national flag.

THE SEAL OF SOLOMON THE NATIONAL ARMS

From the 17th century, when After independence in 1958,
Morocco was ruled by the Hassani Morocco adopted a national coat
Dynasty, the flags of the country of arms. This depicts the sun rising
were plain red. In 1915, during the over the Atlas Mountains. The arms
reign of Mulay Yusuf, the green also includes the Seal of Solomon
“Seal of Solomon” was added to from the national flag. On the scroll
the national flag. The Seal is an is an inscription from the Qur’an
interlaced pentangle, used as a (Koran), which reads “If you assist
symbol in occult law for centuries. God, he will assist you.”

56

Africa

Algeria

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: July 3, 1962 Usage: National and Civil

Green is the White is symbolic
color of Islam of purity

The crescent and The longer than
star of Islam recall usual horns stand
for good fortune
Ottoman rule and happiness

Red represents liberty

Africa

4UNISIA Algeria was occupied by the French from 1830.
Independence was achieved in 1962 after a long
-OROCCO struggle led by the National Liberation Front.

7ESTERN !,'%2)! ,IBYA
3AHARA
-AURITANIA -ALI .IGER

The flag of Algeria was adopted whole emblem recalls the period
by the National Liberation Front of Ottoman rule during the 16th
(Front de Libération National) in century and its color, red, is symbolic
1954, on the basis of an older design, of liberty.
created in 1928, by the nationalist
leader Messali Hadj. From 1958-62 THE NAVAL ENSIGN
it was the flag of the Provisional
Government in exile, but it was The naval ensign has two crossed
retained when independence was anchors in the canton. This device
achieved in 1962 and has remained is used on the naval ensigns of
unchanged ever since. several Arab countries, following
the example of Egypt.

SYMBOLISM IN THE FLAG THE EMBLEM OF ALGERIA

The green in the hoist is the The state coat of arms is based on
traditional color of Islam and the the well-known local emblem of the
white represents purity. The horns “Hand of Fatima.” It also contains
of the crescent are longer than usual the crescent and star of Islam,
and represent increase or good alongside symbols reflecting both
fortune and happiness, whilst the agriculture and industry.

57

Africa Red taken from
the flag of Turkey
Tunisia

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: 1835 Usage: National and Civil

The crescent and
star of Islam

Africa Italy Part of the Turkish Empire until 1881, Tunisia
TUNISIA then became a French Protectorate. In 1957, it
Algeria became a republic when the “Bey” was deposed.
Libya

The flag is based on that of the The coat of arms of Tunisia has
Turkish Empire and was adopted by been altered since the abolition of
the “Bey,” the hereditary ruler of the monarchy, most recently in 1963,
Tunisia, in 1835, primarily as a and unusually has the motto on a
military flag. During the French scroll actually on the shield. The
administration (1881-1957) it became motto reads—in Arabic—“Order,
a sea flag, with the French Tricolore in Liberty, Justice.” The ship, lion, and
the canton; this was removed when balance were retained from the
independence was achieved in 1956. previous arms.

ARMS OF TUNISIA The ship also
recalls early settlers
The ship, lion, and
balance symbolize The national
the national motto motto—“Order,
Liberty, Justice”

58

Libya Africa

Ratio: 3:5 Adopted: 1977 Usage: National and Civil It is the only
national flag of a
Green is the single plain color
national color
of Libya and also
reflects the people’s
devotion to Islam

Africa

4UNISIA %GYPT Libya achieved independence in 1951, but in
,)"9! 3UDAN 1969 the King was deposed and Libya formed a
republic led by Colonel Gadaffi.
!LGERIA

.IGER #HAD

The flag of the independent kingdom a hawk emblem in the center and
was red, black, and green with a the name of the country beneath it.
crescent and star in the center, but
after the revolution of 1969, the flag When Libya quit the Federation
became three simple stripes of red, in 1977, the new plain green flag
white, and black. was adopted. The national emblem
remains similar to the one used
In 1971, Libya joined the Federation while Libya was part of the
of Arab Republics with Egypt and Federation, which shows the
Syria which used a similar flag with Hawk of Quraish.

ARMS OF LIBYA

The Hawk of Quraish
is the emblem of the
tribe of Muhammad

The title of the
state—“The Great
Socialist People’s
Libyan Arab Republic”

59

Africa

Egypt

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 4, 1984 Usage: National and Civil

Red, white, and
black are Pan-Arab
colors

Eagle of Saladin

Africa Israel Jordan Egypt was a kingdom until 1953. From 1958-1961
Saudi it joined the United Arab Republic and from 1972-
Libya 1977 the Federation of Arab Republics.
EGYPT Arabia

As a kingdom, the flag was green stars in the center of the white stripe.
with a white crescent and three stars. In 1972, when the Federation was
formed, the stars were replaced with
THE UNITED ARAB REPUBLIC the Hawk of the Quraish (see page
59), in gold, above the state name.
When the United Arab Republic
(uar) was formed in 1958, they In 1984, Egypt reverted to the gold
adapted the flag of the Liberation eagle used by the Liberation Rally.
Rally which led the independence These colors and the eagle emblem
revolt of 1952—53. The uar flag was have been widely copied in other
red, white and black, with two green Arab countries.

FLAG OF THE LIBERATION
RALLY 1952-58

The gold eagle is said to The crescent and stars
be the Eagle of Saladin were retained from the
old national flag

60

Africa

Sudan Red, white,
black, and
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: May 20, 1970 Usage: National and Civil green are
Pan-Arab
Red represents colors
socialism
Black is for
Green is the the dark pre-
color of Islam Islamic past
and prosperity

White represents
purity and optimism

Africa Egypt Ruled jointly by Egypt and Britain from 1877,
Sudan became independent in 1956. Since then it
Libya has had a series of different regimes.
Chad

The flag used at independence White represents purity and
was a horizontal tricolor of blue, optimism; red is for socialism, green
yellow and green, but following for prosperity, and black for the dark,
the formation of the Democratic pre-Islamic past.
Republic in 1968, a new flag was
chosen by competition. In 1969 a new arms was adopted,
with a secretary bird bearing a shield
A PAN-ARAB FLAG from the time of the Mahdi, (who
briefly ruled Sudan in the 19th
This is like other Arab flags. The century). Two scrolls are placed
green as a triangle at the hoist. above and below the secretary bird.

ARMS OF SUDAN The national motto—
“Al-nasr lina”
The title of the state— (“Victory is ours”)
“Al-Jamhuriya as-Sudaniya”
A secretary bird
(“Republic of Sudan”) bears the shield

61

Africa Green, blue,
and red are the
Eritrea
colors of the
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: May 24, 1993 Usage: National and Civil Eritrean People’s
Liberation Front
An olive branch
is encircled by a
wreath representing
Eritrean autonomy

Africa

Sudan Saudi Eritrea was federated to Ethiopia in 1952 and fully
Arabia integrated in 1962. From 1972, a long war of
secession led to independence in 1993.
ERITREA Yemen

Ethiopia

The flag of the Eritrean People’s olive leaves. Originally this emblem
Liberation Front (eplf), which was green on a blue flag, but it is now
campaigned for independence, is yellow.
green and blue with a red triangle
bearing a gold star. The flag adopted THE PRESIDENT’S FLAG
on independence retained the colors
and pattern, but replaced the star The President’s flag contains the
with the emblem used previously for national arms, which depicts a
autonomous Eritrea. This is an olive camel in a desert, with the name
branch surrounded by a wreath of of the state underneath in English,
Tigrinya, and Arabic.

THE PRESIDENT’S FLAG

The arms of Eritrea The colors of the
national flag are used

The arms is
surrounded by a
wreath of leaves

62

Africa

Djibouti

Ratio: 21:38 Adopted: June 27, 1977 Usage: National and Civil

White, green, Light blue
and light blue represents the
are the colors of Issa people
the lpai
Green represents
The star represents the Afar people,
the unity of the state with their land
and links to Islam

Africa Yemen Once known as French Somaliland, and from 1967
DJIBOUTI as the Territory of the Afars and Issas, Djibouti
Eritrea gained independence in 1977.
Somalia
Ethiopia

The national flag adopted in 1977 position, and the proportions of the
was an adaptation of the flag of flag were lengthened. The colors
the Ligue Populaire Africaine pour stand for the Issas and the Afars,
l’Indépendance (lpai) which led the two peoples of Djibouti at
Djibouti to independence. The lpai independence, and the red star
flag had a red triangle with a white for the unity of the diverse state.
star. For the national flag, adopted
at independence, the star was placed The coat of arms is centered
in an upright, rather than a slanted around a Somali shield and spear,
bordered by two hunting knives.

ARMS OF DJIBOUTI The red star is a
traditional symbol of unity
A Somali shield and
weapons; two hunting The coat of arms
contains a local shield
knives and a spear

63

Africa

Ethiopia Green recalls
the land and
Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: February 6, 1996 Usage: National and Civil hope for the
future
The colors
date back Yellow is the
to the 19th color of peace
century and love

Red is
symbolic of

strength

The emblem represents
diversity and unity

Africa

Sudan Eritrea Ethiopia was recognized as an empire in the
Djibouti 19th century. It was occupied by Italy from 1936–41.
The Emperor was overthrown in 1974.
ETHIOPIASomalia
Kenya

The three traditional colors: green, ETHIOPIA AND THE RASTAFARI
yellow, and red date back to the
Emperor Menelik (1889–1913) and In the 1930s the Ethiopian colors
were first used in a flag in 1895. became popular with black activists
in Jamaica who looked to Ethiopia
The current flag and emblem for political and spiritual guidance.
were adopted after the defeat of the Since then, these colors (along with
Marxist Mengistu regime, in power black from the flag of Marcus
from 1974–1991. The emblem is Garvey) have become linked with
intended to represent both the the Rastafarian movement, and have
diversity and unity of the country. spread to other African countries.

EMBLEM OF ETHIOPIA

The star represents Blue represents
diversity and unity peace

The sun’s rays
symbolize prosperity

64

Africa

Somalia

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 12, 1954 Usage: National and Civil

The five-pointed The blue is the same
star represents the as that used by the
branches of the United Nations
Somali race; in
Ethiopia, Kenya,
Djibouti, and the
former British and
Italian colonies

The star of unity

Africa Modern Somalia is a combination of the former
Italian territory and British Somaliland. Since 1991
Djibouti it has been in a state of civil war.
Ethiopia
SOMALIA

The flag was adopted by the Italian including those living in Ethiopia,
Trusteeship Territory in 1954 on Djibouti, and Kenya.
the basis of the blue and white flag
of the United Nations, which was ARMS OF SOMALIA
supervising the territory at the
time. It was retained when Somalia The coat of arms was adopted in
became independent in 1960. The 1956. The leopards which support
five-pointed star is said to stand for the shield and the white star were
the five branches of the Somali race also found on the arms used during
the Italian administration.

ARMS OF SOMALIA The supporters are
leopards; a leopard also
The shield is featured on the shield
based on the of the colonial arms
national flag

Below the shield are
two palm branches
and two spears

65

Africa

Uganda

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 9, 1962 Usage: National and Civil

The colors of the The great crested
flag represent the crane is the national
Ugandan people, badge of Uganda
sunlight, and
brotherhood

Black, yellow, and red are the
party colors of the UPC

Africa

3UDAN Since independence in 1962, Uganda has suffered
years of upheaval. Under the current regime some
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Africa

Kenya

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 12, 1963 Usage: National and Civil

Black, red, and The white
green are kanu fimbriations were
party colors added to the KANU
flag to create the
White was added national flag
to represent the
Kenya African

Democratic Union

The African shield is also
used in the national arms

Africa

Sudan Ethiopia malia Kenya became a colony in 1920 having previously
been known as British East Africa. It became
Uganda So independent in 1963 and a republic in 1964.
KENYA

Tanzania

The flag adopted at independence shield and spears, but with a white
was based on that of the Kenya rooster in the center, grasping an ax.
Africa National Union (kanu);
the dominant political party. For Kenya was the first African
the national flag, white fimbriations country to use a shield of traditional
were added, and the shield and design in its coat of arms, a practice
spears replaced the party symbol. which has since been followed in
many other new states. It was also
A coat of arms was adopted in the first to give the motto in a local
1963 which makes use of the same language, in this case Swahili.

ARMS OF KENYA

The shield stands on The rooster with an ax is
a representation of the KANU party symbol
Mount Kenya
“Harambee” meaning
“Pull Together” in Swahili

67

Africa

Rwanda

Ratio: 6:13 Adopted: December 31, 2001 Usage: National and Civil

Light blue The Golden Sun
stands for symbolizes the
the hope of enlightenment
happiness that will bring
and peace unity and fight
ignorance

Green represents Yellow is symbolic of the need for
future prosperity economic growth

Africa

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Africa

Burundi

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: June 28, 1967 Usage: National and Civil

Green The three stars
represents hope represent the three
ethnic groups, the
White signifies peace Tutsi, Hutu,
and Twa

Red is symbolic of blood shed in
the struggle for independence

Africa

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Africa

Central African Republic

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 1, 1958 Usage: National and Civil

Red, yellow, and Red, white, and
green are Pan- blue are taken
African colors
from the French
The star represents Tricolore
hope of a union
under France

The vertical stripe represents
unity and the blood of humanity

Africa

Chad Sudan Previously known as Ubangui-Shari, the Central
African Republic was formed as an autonomous
CENTRAL state in 1958 under French protection.
AFRICAN REPUBLIC

Cameroon Dem. Rep.
Congo

The flag is unique in that it combines under the Emperor Bokassa from
the Pan-African colors with those of 1976-79, but no change was made to
France, the former colonial power. the national symbols.
This was done in the hope that
neighboring states would join a The coat of arms is intended to
federation under French protection, symbolize both the Central African
but this never materialized; the star Republic and its important position in
represents the hope of achieving this the center of Africa. The upper scroll
goal. The state became an empire bears the motto of the former ruling
party; it means “A Man is a Man.”

ARMS OF THE CENTRAL The central feature is a gold
AFRICAN REPUBLIC star on a map of Africa,
symbolizing the position of
An elephant and the Central African Republic
a baobab tree
The hand was the party
The national motto—“Unité, emblem of the dominant
Dignité, Travail” meaning party in 1963, when the
“Unity, Dignity, Work” arms was adopted

70

Africa

Dem. Rep. Congo

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: February 18, 2006 Usage: National and Civil

The gold fimbriations A blue flag with a
suggest hope in yellow star was the
the future
flag of the Congo
The red diagonal Free State from
represents the blood 1877-1908

shed in civil wars.

Africa The Democratic Republic of Congo was originally
the Congo Free State (1880). In 1908 it became the
CAR Belgian Congo and gained independence in 1960.
DEM. REP.

Congo CONGO

Angola Zambia

The flag of the Dem. Rep. of Congo provinces. In 1964 the design
is like the design used 1964-1971. changed to one like the present flag.
The flag of the Congo Free State
was blue, with a central gold star. In 1971, the name of the country
Under Belgian rule this flag changed to Zaïre, and the flag was
remained, beside the Belgian flag. At based on that of the ruling party.
independence in 1960, six stars were In 1997 the 1960 flag was restored,
added down the hoist for the then six but replaced by the present design
in 2006.

FLAG OF CONGO FLAG OF ZAïRE
1960—1964 AND 1997— 1971—1997

71

Africa

Niger

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 23, 1959 Usage: National and Civil

Orange represents the
savannah grasslands

White represents
the River Niger

Green represents the
country’s rain forests

The orange disc is
symbolic of the sun

Africa Libya Niger was originally a province of French West
Chad Africa. In 1958 it joined the Sahel-Benin Union,
Algeria achieving full independence in 1960.
Mali

NIGER

Burkina Nigeria

The flag was designed in 1958 with rain forest, whilst the white strip
that of the Ivory Coast, with which stands for the Niger River, and the
Niger was in alliance, along with orange disc for the sun. The flag was
Chad and Dahomey (modern Benin). retained on independence and has
This alliance came to nothing, but remained unchanged ever since.
flags were adopted which indicated
their common interest. In the case of Four flags appear on the arms of
Niger, the orange is said to stand for Niger, surrounding a green shield.
the savannah and the green for the On the shield are weapons, the sun,
a corncob, and a buffalo’s head.

ARMS OF NIGER Corn represents the
country’s agriculture
Weapons represent
military achievements The buffalo’s head
reflects pastoral farming
The title of the
state—in French—is

placed on the scroll

72

Africa

Chad

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 6, 1959 Usage: National and Civil

The flag combines Red recalls the blood
two Pan-African shed for independence
colors—red and
yellow, with two
colors from the
French Tricolore—
blue and red

Yellow symbolizes
the sun and deserts

Blue symbolizes the sky
and waters of the south

Africa

,IBYA Chad became an autonomous republic in 1958 and
for two years joined with Niger, Ivory Coast and
.IGER Dahomey in the informal Sahel-Benin Union.
#(!$ 3UDAN

#!2

The flag is a combination of the THE NATIONAL ARMS
Pan-African colors popularized by
Ghana, and those of the French The coat of arms dates from 1970,
Tricolore, on which it is closely although Chad also has a seal (like
modeled. It was adopted for the many former French colonies),
autonomous republic and retained on adopted in 1959. The arms is in the
independence in 1960. Despite many colors of the national flag and is
upheavals since independence the flag supported by a lion and a wild goat.
has not been changed. The medal below the shield is the
badge of the National Order of Chad.

ARMS OF CHAD The wavy bars
symbolize Lake Chad
The red symbol is for
salt, the country’s The lion is symbolic of
main mineral the south of the country

A mountain goat The national motto—
represents the “Unité, Travail,
north of Chad Progrès” (“Unity,
Work, Progress”)

73

Africa

Mauritania

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: April 1, 1959 Usage: National and Civil

Yellow and green The crescent and
are both Pan- star of Islam
African colors

Green also recalls
the country’s
Islamic faith

Africa !LGERIA Mauritania became fully independent from France
in 1960. From 1976-79 it occupied part of Western
7ESTERN Sahara; now occupied by Morocco.
3AHARA

-!52)4!.)!

3ENEGAL -ALI

The flag was adopted in 1959 for the represents a real seal, used for
autonomous republic. It consists certifying documents.
simply of a yellow crescent and star
of Islam on a green field, expressive It bears the title of the state around
of the country’s full title—“The the edge. In the center are the
Mauritanian Islamic Republic.” Islamic crescent and star emblems.
These are decorated with a palm
Mauritania also has a seal, like branch and a millet plant, both
those used in many former French important national plants. The seal
colonies. It is uncolored and was adopted for Mauritania in 1960.

SEAL OF MAURITANIA The star and
crescent of Islam
The name of the
country is given in both A millet plant

French and Arabic

A palm branch

74

Africa

Mali

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: March 1, 1961 Usage: National and Civil

Green, yellow, and The style of the flag
red are Pan-African is modeled on the
colors French Tricolore

Africa !LGERIA Mali achieved independence from France in
confederation with Senegal on June 20, 1960, but
-AURITANIA split away later the same year to form a republic.
3ENEGAL

'UINEA

The flag adopted in 1959 for the 1960, the flag was kept for use in
Confederation was an imitation of Mali until March 1, 1961, when the
the flag of Ghana, but following the black figure was dropped.
style of the French Tricolore. It was
charged with a black emblem known Mali also has a seal, like those of
as a kanaga, a stylized human figure. other former French colonies. It is
The colors were intended to reflect a uncolored and displays a local fortress
unity with other African nations. between two bows and arrows.
After the two countries split up in Above the fortress is a dove of peace
and below it is a rising sun.

SEAL OF MALI The dove of peace
The title of the state
A local fortress The national motto—“Un
A bow and arrow Peuple, Un But, Une Foi”
meaning “One People,
One Goal, One Faith”

75

Africa

Senegal The design is
modeled on a
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: September 1960 Usage: National and Civil French Tricolore

The Pan-African
colors: red, yellow
and green

The star represents
unity and hope

Africa

-AURITANIA Senegal achieved independence from France in
federation with Mali in June 1960. The Federation
3%.%'!, -ALI lasted until August 1960.
'AMBIA

'UINEA
"ISSAU 'UINEA

The original flag for the Federation kanaga emblem on the original
with Mali was adopted on April 4, Federation flag to a green star. This
1959. It remained in use in Mali has remained the flag ever since.
until March 1961.
The coat of arms was designed by
A NEW NATIONAL FLAG a French heraldist in 1965. It depicts
a rampant lion and a baobab tree—
After the breakup of the Federation emblems which had appeared on
in 1960, Senegal adopted a new earlier badges of Senegal. The medal
national flag; changing the black is the star of the National Order.

ARMS OF SENEGAL The star is the same as
on the national flag
The lion and baobab tree
appeared on previous arms Motto is the same as Mali’s—
“Un Peuple, Un But, Une
A wreath of palm branches Foi” (“One People, One
Goal, One Faith”)
The star of the
National Order

76

Africa

Gambia

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: February 18, 1965 Usage: National and Civil

Red represents
the savannah
grasslands

The blue stripe
symbolizes the
River Gambia

Green symbolizes
the forests

Africa

-AURITANIA The Gambia became self-governing in 1963 and
fully independent of Britain on February 18, 1965.
3ENEGAL It became a republic on April 24, 1970.

'!-")! -ALI

'UINEA
"ISSAU 'UINEA

The flag of Gambia has no political colonial badge of the Gambia and
basis. The blue stripe of the flag is follows traditional heraldry. The
said to represent the River Gambia two tools represent the main ethnic
flowing between the green forest and groups—the Mandinka and the
the red savannah. It was adopted at Fulani—and the crest, above the
independence in 1965. helmet, is a local oil palm.

The coat of arms was granted The federation formed with
before independence, in 1964. It Senegal from 1981—1989 had no
makes no reference to the previous effect on the national symbols.

ARMS OF GAMBIA A crest of oil
palm leaves
The supporters are two
lions, shown holding tools An ax and a hoe represent
the Mandinka and the
The national motto— Fulani, the two main ethnic
“Progress, Peace, Prosperity” groups in Gambia

77

Africa

Cape Verde

Ratio: 10:17 Adopted: February 25, 1992 Usage: National and Civil

The ten stars stand The red stripe
for the ten islands between the white
of Cape Verde represents the
road to progress
Blue represents the
Atlantic Ocean

#!0%

Africa

Guinea-Bissau

Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: September 24, 1973 Usage: National and Civil

The black star Yellow stands
represents the for the sun
unity of Africa
Green
represents hope

Red stands for the blood shed during
the struggle for independence

Africa -ALI Guinea-Bissau is so-called to distinguish it from
the former French Guinea. Formerly a territory of
3ENEGAL Portugal, it achieved self-government in 1973.

'5).%!

")33!5

Like the former flag of Cape Verde, pan-African combination of red,
the flag is based on that of the Partido yellow, green, and black in 1957.
Africano para a Independencia da Guiné In the Ghanaian view, the black star
e Cabo Verde (paigc), still the stands for the unity of Africa. The
dominant party in Guinea-Bissau. colors are now said to stand for the
blood shed for independence, hope,
THE GHANAIAN INFLUENCE and the sun, as the source of life.

The party flag was derived from The coat of arms is the paigc
that of Ghana, which first used the badge, a black star and a scallop shell.

ARMS OF GUINEA-BISSAU As the PAIGC badge, the
palm leaves represented
A star symbolizing Guinea-Bissau
African unity
The scallop shell
The PAIGC motto originally recalled the
—“Unidade, Luta, Cape Verde islands
Progresso” meaning
“Unity, Struggle, Progress”

79

Africa

Guinea

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 10, 1958 Usage: National and Civil

The flag is modeled Green represents the
on the French country’s vegetation
Tricolore, but in
Pan-African colors

Red symbolizes the
people’s sacrifice

Yellow represents the sun
and the riches of the earth

Africa

3ENEGAL -ALI In 1958, Guinea became the first territory in
former French West Africa to gain independence
'UINEA
'5).%! without first becoming an autonomous republic.
"ISSAU
)VORY
3IERRA

Africa

Sierra Leone

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: April 27, 1961 Usage: National and Civil

White stands Green represents
for justice the agricultural and
natural resources of
the country

Blue recalls the natural harbor
at Freetown, the capital

Africa

'UINEA Sierra Leone was founded as a home for freed
slaves in 1787, but became a British colony in 1808.
3)%22! )VORY It achieved independence in 1961.
,%/.% #OAST

,IBERIA

The arms and flag of Sierra Leone base are wavy bars depicting the sea.
were devised by the College of Arms The supporters are lions, similar to
and granted in 1960. those on the colonial badge.

ARMS OF SIERRA LEONE The three main colors from the
shield—green, white and blue—were
The shield depicts a lion beneath used to form the flag. They represent
a zigzag border, representing the Lion agricultural and natural resources in
Mountains after which the territory green, unity and justice in white, and
was named, and three torches. At the blue for the harbor at Freetown.

ARMS OF SIERRA LEONE The lions holding oil-palms
are taken from the old
The torches symbolize colonial badge
education and progress
The border represents
National motto—“Unity, the Lion Mountains
Freedom, Justice”
The wavy bars
depict the sea

81

Africa

Liberia The flag is
modeled on the
Ratio: 10:19 Adopted: July 26, 1847 Usage: National and Civil
US Stars and
The star Stripes
represents
African freedom

Eleven stripes represent the eleven men that
signed the Liberian Declaration of Independence

Africa

3IERRA 'UINEA )VORY Liberia was founded in 1816 by the American
,EONE #OAST Colonization Society as a home for freed slaves from
the USA. It became independent in 1847.
,)"%2)!

The flag of Liberia is clearly based All the counties of Liberia have
on that of the USA, with one white local flags, but the extent of their
star in a blue canton standing for use is unclear.
the freedom it was intended should
shine forth in the so-called “Dark THE PRESIDENT’S FLAG
Continent.” The canton itself
represents Africa. The eleven stripes There is also a flag for the President,
are said to stand, in this case, for the using a shield in the form of the
signatories of Liberia’s Declaration of national flag. Whether this is actually
Independence. in use is in doubt, in view of the civil
war in Liberia since 1990.

THE PRESIDENT’S
FLAG

Shield is derived from Four stars
features of the national flag representing
the Supreme
Commander

82

Africa

Ivory Coast

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: December 3, 1959 Usage: National and Civil

The design is Green recalls their
modeled on the coastal forests
French Tricolore

Orange represents the
savannah grasslands

White represents
the country’s rivers

Africa

'UINEA -ALI "URKINA Ivory Coast was originally part of French
West Africa. It became independent in its own
)6/29 right on August 7, 1960.
#/!34

,IBERIA 'HANA

After independence, Ivory Coast interpretation is that they symbolize
formed a loose alliance of West progress, hope, and national unity.
African states. The flags of these The flag was adopted in 1959, just
states were influenced both by the prior to independence.
pan-African colors first used by
Ghana, and also by the model of the THE NATIONAL ARMS
French Tricolore, the flag of the
former colonial power. The coat of arms, which has a green
shield charged with an elephant’s
ALLIANCE OF WEST AFRICAN STATES head, is based on the emblem of the
Rassemblement Démocratique Africaine,
The colors chosen for Ivory Coast’s the dominant political party at the
flag were also used by Niger, with time of independence. Originally the
which Ivory Coast had an alliance elephant’s head was on a blue shield,
(the resemblance to the colors of but this was altered in 1964 to green,
Ireland is coincidental). They were to match the national flag. The shield
intended to symbolize the following: is supported by two palm trees.
orange represents the savannah Behind is a rising sun. On a scroll at
grasslands, white the rivers, and green the base of the arms is the title of the
the coastal forests. Another state, “Republique de Côte d’Ivoire.”

83

Africa

Burkina

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: August 4, 1984 Usage: National and Civil

Red, yellow, and Red recalls the
green are pan- 1984 revolution
African colors
The star is the
guiding light of
the revolution

Green represents Burkina’s
abundant natural resources

Africa Burkina, originally known as Upper Volta, was
once a French colony. It became self-governing in
-ALI .IGER 1958 and fully independent in 1960.
"52+).!

)VORY

Ghana Africa

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: March 6, 1957 Usage: National Red recalls the
blood shed by
Ghana was the first freedom fighters
country to use the Yellow represents
pan-African colors mineral wealth
of red, yellow,
green, and black

Green is symbolic The star of
of the country’s African freedom
rich forests

Africa

"URKINA Previously the Gold Coast, Ghana became
independent from Britain in 1957. It took its new
4OGO name from that of an historic African empire.

)VORY '(!.!
#OAST

Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first the inspiration for numerous other
leader after independence, was the African flags during the period of
first to introduce the politically decolonization.
symbolic pan-African colors—red,
yellow, green, and black—into Ghana followed the flag patterns
African flags. They were ultimately established in the United Kingdom,
derived from the colors of Ethiopia, and so has a both a red ensign for use
dating back to the 19th century and on civil vessels and a white ensign for
have now become associated with naval vessels. This use of several flags
the Rastafarian movement in the sets it apart from other West African
West Indies. The flag also became states, which normally have only one
all-purpose flag.

GHANAIAN RED ENSIGN

The national flag is The field is in the style of
placed in the canton the British Red Ensign

85

Africa

Togo The five stripes
represent the five
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: April 27, 1960 Usage: National and Civil
regions of Togo
The star of hope

Red symbolizes Yellow reflects
the blood shed Togo’s mineral
wealth
during the struggle
for independence

Green represents
agricultural wealth

Africa

"URKINA Togo, once a German colony, was divided
between France and Britain in 1914. The French
"ENIN part became independent, as Togo, in 1960.

4/'/
.IGERIA

'HANA

During the period of autonomy, signify its agricultural and mineral
1956-1960, the flag was green resources. The red canton is for the
with two yellow stars arranged blood of those who struggled for
diagonally with the French Tricolore independence, while the white star
in the canton. is for hope, as on Liberia’s flag.

On independence in 1960, the The national emblem contains two
present flag was adopted. The five lions holding bows and arrows, and a
stripes stand for the regions of Togo, sun with the country’s initials. Above
and are in green and yellow to the sun is the national motto.

EMBLEM OF TOGO The national motto—
“Union, Paix, Solidarité”,
“RT” stands for the title meaning “Unity, Peace,
of the state “République Solidarity”

Togolaise” Two lions are shown
carrying bows and arrows
to protect the homeland

86

Africa

Benin

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 16, 1959 Usage: National and Civil

Red, yellow, and
green are pan-
African colors
The colors
symbolize
African unity and
nationalism

Africa .IGERIA Originally known as Dahomey, Benin became
"%.). autonomous in 1958 and independent from France
"URKINA in 1960. Its name was changed in 1975.

4OGO

The flag used today is the same as arms. The seal depicts a pirogue or
that adopted in 1959, although after African canoe with a bow and arrow,
the revolution of December 1975, and two clubs. The arms consists of
a green flag with a red star in the a quartered shield depicting a local
canton was used. The original flag Somba fortress, the medal of the
was restored in 1990, as was the Order of the Star of Benin, a palm
original national emblem. The new tree, and a sailing ship. The motto is
name of the country was retained. “Fraternité, Justice, Travail” meaning
Benin has both a seal and a coat of “Fraternity, Justice, Work.”

ARMS OF BENIN The Horns of Plenty
spilling out ears of corn
A Somba fortress are symbolic of riches
The national motto from the land
meaning “Fraternity,
The Order of
Justice, Work” Star of Benin

87

Africa

Nigeria

Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: October 1, 1960 Usage: National

White
symbolizes
peace and

unity

Green recalls
the land

Africa

.IGER Nigeria was formed in 1914 from several British
colonies and protectorates. In 1954 it became a
"ENIN #HAD federation and in 1960 achieved independence.

.)'%2)!

#AMEROON

The national flag is an adaptation of one time the states also had flags.
the winning entry in a competition The coat of arms was granted in
held in 1959. The original had a red
sun with streaming rays placed at 1960, but the motto has been altered
the top of the white stripe. This was since then to include the words
removed by the judges and the flag “Peace and Progress.” The shield
has not been altered since. represents the confluence of two
rivers and the crest is a red eagle.
Like Ghana, Nigeria has special It all stands on a green base strewn
flags for civil and naval vessels and at with the Coctus spectabilis flower.

ARMS OF NIGERIA The red eagle
symbolizing strength
The confluence is the national badge
of the Niger and
The two white
Benuë rivers horses symbolize
The Coctus dignity
spectabilis is the
national flower The national motto—
“Unity and Faith,
Peace and Progress”

88

Africa

Cameroon Red, yellow, and
green are the
Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: May 20, 1975 Usage: National and Civil
pan-African colors
The pattern of the
flag reflects the
French Tricolore

The star of unity Yellow symbolizes
prosperity

Green represents hope The red stripe
represents unity

Africa

.IGERIA #HAD Cameroon was originally a German colony,
which was partitioned by the French and the British
#

Africa

Equatorial Guinea

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 12, 1968 Usage: National and Civil

The blue triangle Green reflects
represents the sea the country’s
agricultural lands
White stands
for peace The national arms
have always appeared
on the flag

Red symbolizes the
country’s independence

Africa

#AMEROON Equatorial Guinea includes the former Spanish
colonies of Río Muni, the island of Fernando Po
%15!4/2)!,

Africa

São Tomé & Príncipe

Ratio: 1:2 Adopted: November 5, 1975 Usage: National and Civil

The red Green, red,
triangle recalls yellow, and
the struggle for black are pan-
independence, African colors
as on the flags

of Ghana
and Togo

The two stars stand
for the two islands

Africa

0R¤NCIPE %QUATORIAL São Tomé & Príncipe are a pair of islands in the
Gulf of Guinea that formerly belonged to Portugal.
3!/

Africa

Gabon

Ratio: 3:4 Adopted: August 9, 1960 Usage: National and Civil

Yellow and green
represent natural
resources

Blue represents
the sea

Africa

Cameroon Gabon was once a province of French Equatorial
Equatorial Africa. It became independent in 1960 under the
leadership of the Gabon Democratic Party.
Guinea Congo

GABON Dem. Rep.
Congo

The original flag was adopted in resources, especially its timber.
1959 and was similar to the present The coat of arms is of European
one, but with stripes of unequal
width and the French Tricolore in the style and is in the colors of the flag.
canton. The Tricolore was dropped at The shield is supported by two
independence. The flag’s unusual black panthers and an okoumé tree,
proportions are laid down by law and symbolic of the timber trade. The
the colors are said to stand for the coat of arms is unusual in having a
sea, and for the country’s natural Latin motto—“Uniti Progrediamur,”
beneath the branches of the tree.

ARMS OF GABON The okoumé tree is
symbolic of the timber trade
A Latin motto—“Unite
Progrediamur” meaning Two black panthers
“We go forward in Unity” support the shield

A second motto means The ship represents
“Union, Work, Justice” Gabon moving toward
a brighter future

92

Africa

Congo

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 20, 1959 Usage: National and Civil

The Pan-African The distinctive
colors of red, diagonal pattern
yellow, and green
sets it apart
from other
Pan-African flags

Africa #

Africa

Angola

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: November 11, 1975 Usage: National and Civil

The design is based The cog-wheel and
on flag of the mpla machete are emblems
of agriculture and
The emblems of industry
are similar to
the Soviet-style
hammer and sickle

Africa Dem. Rep. Originally a Portuguese colony, Angola was
Congo eventually liberated by the People’s Liberation
Congo Movement of Angola in 1975.

ANGOLA

Namibia

The flag of the People’s Liberation cog-wheel, star, and machete, but
Movement of Angola (mpla) is like includes a hoe. These symbols are on
the present national flag but with a a background which, like the
yellow star. The half cog-wheel and emblem on the flag, is similar to the
machete on the national flag were devices used in Soviet designs. The
added, to create an emblem cog-wheel is balanced by a wreath of
reminiscent of the hammer and sickle cotton, coffee, and corn, and an open
on the Soviet flag. book. On the scroll is “Republic of
Angola,” the state name.
The national arms also features the

ARMS OF ANGOLA The Soviet-style
These are emblems of emblem is still in use

agriculture and of industry The state name,
in Portuguese—
The book is symbolic of the República de
importance of education Angola—

94

Africa

Zambia

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: October 24, 1964 Usage: National and Civil

The green field The eagle is taken
represents Zambia’s from the national
arms
agriculture
Yellow represents the
country’s copper

Red recalls the struggle Black stands for
for independence the people

Africa

Dem. Rep. Tanzania Zambia was formerly the British colony of
Congo Northern Rhodesia. It was granted full
independence in 1964.
Angola
ZAMBIA Malawi

Mozambique

Zimbabwe

Although the United National In the arms, the eagle, which
Independence Party is no longer once appeared in the upper part of
dominant in Zambia, the party’s the shield, forms the crest, above a
colors remain in the bottom left crossed pickax and hoe. White and
of the flag, designed by graphic black bars on the shield represent
artists just prior to independence. the famous Victoria Falls. The
The eagle is taken from the national supporters are an African man and
arms, which are based on those of woman and the motto on the base
the former Northern Rhodesia. reads “One Zambia, One Nation.”

ARMS OF ZAMBIA The eagle of liberty

The shield stands on an The pickax and hoe are
allegorical landscape emblems of agriculture
and industry

The shield represents the
white waters of the Zambezi
River flowing over black rock
at the Victoria Falls

Africa

Tanzania

Ratio: 2:3 Adopted: June 30, 1964 Usage: National and Civil

Green and black,
taken from the old
Tanganyikan flag,
represent the land
and the people

Blue, taken from the
flag of Zanzibar,
represents the sea

Yellow symbolizes
mineral wealth

Africa Kenya The British Trusteeship Territory of Tanganyika
became independent in 1961. In 1964, it merged
Rwanda with the Republic of Zanzibar, to form Tanzania.

Burundi
Dem. Rep. N;HT;HC;

Congo
Zambia Mozambique

The original flag of independent white stripe along the hoist.
Tanganyika was derived from that
of the Tanganyika African National A NEW UNITED FLAG
Union, the dominant party at the
time. This was horizontal stripes of When the two countries united to
green-black-green. For the national form Tanzania, a new national flag
flag, yellow fimbriations were placed was created which combined the
between the green and the black. colors of Tanganyika and Zanzibar.
The country’s coat of arms was also
Derived from the Afro-Shirazi altered to include the new national
Party, the flag of Zanzibar is green, flag in the shield, again to reflect the
black, and blue stripes, with a vertical new union of the two countries.

FLAG OF ZANZIBAR

The national flag was These are the colors of
added as a canton to the the Afro-Shirazi Party,
revolutionary flag of 1964 who overthrew the ruling
Sultan in 1964