The Kenyan flag is one of the most iconic and famous flags in African history. It’s a tricolour of three equal width horizontal bands coloured from the top-down in black, red and green and separated by white strips, with a Maasai shield and white spears imposed in the middle. All national flags have an origin and holds a symbolic value to a country. And like other flags of Africa, Kenya’s has a story behind it and is the result of fight for freedom and independence of the nation. Here are some intriguing facts that you may not have known regarding the flag that represents Kenya.
History of the Kenyan flag
The important fact to remember is that it was officially adopted by Kenya on December 12, 1963 after Kenya‘s independence, and the white fimbriation, symbolizing peace and unity, was added. The black over red over green flag of KANU (Kenya African National Union), the political party that led the fight for freedom and independence of the nation.
Kenya had a different flag
The flag representing Kenya today used to be different during the Kenya Colony. First flag of the nation was adopted and made up of a British blue ensign with red lion.
Kenyan flag colours meaning
The colours of Kenyan flag have different meanings that symbolizes unity, peace and defense of the country. Black represents the people of the Republic of Kenya. Red represents the blood shed during the fights for freedom and independence. Green represents the Kenya’s renowned landscape and natural abundance. The two, narrow, White fimbriation symbolizes peace and honesty.
The central Maasai shield and spears
The central traditional Maasai shield and two spears in black, red, and white colours, symbolises the defense of freedom and all the things the flag represent.
Kenyan flag has inspired others
There are flags in other African countries that were inspired by the Kenyan flag. The flag of South Sudan adopted in 9 July 2005, is Black, White, Red and Green, same stripes of the Kenyan flag.
The flag of Eswatini October 6, 1968, features a shield and two spears on its flag, that symbolises protection from the country’s enemies.
Where is Kenya located on the map of Africa?
Showing Kenya on map of Africa. It situated in East Africa with coastline on the Indian Ocean.
