Flag of South Africa

Proportion	2:3
Adopted	27 April 1994

The national flag of South Africa was first adopted in April 1994. It was designed by Frederick Brownell in March 1994.^[1]

Appearance

It has horizontal bands of red (on the top) and blue (on the bottom), It is separated by a central green band which splits into a horizontal "Y" shape. The design and hues encapsulate key elements from the country's flag history. Each color or combination holds unique significance for various individuals, thus no singular symbolism should be universally applied.

The central motif of the flag,^[2] originating at the flagpole in a 'V' shape and extending into a solitary horizontal stripe towards the outer edge, symbolizes the amalgamation of varied facets within South African society, progressing collectively into the future. This motif resonates with the ethos of convergence and unity, echoing the motto "Unity is Strength" from the former South African Coat of Arms.

History

1928–1994

1912–1928 (de facto)

1910–1912 (de facto)

Flag Of South Africa Media

South African Ambassador to the U.S. Harry Schwarz presenting the new flag to the U.S. president Bill Clinton and vice president Al Gore in May 1994.
The flag flying at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
The South Africa Red Ensign was South Africa's de facto national flag between 1910 and 1928 and was flown at times from Government buildings.
The design of the Red Ensign was modified slightly in 1912 when the shield was placed on a white disc so as to make it more distinguishable. The Red Ensign continued to be used as the flag of the South African merchant marine until 1951.
A variant of South Africa Red Ensign with the full coat of arms of South Africa on a white disc. Commonly flown by civilians.
The Blue Ensign was flown over the Union's offices abroad between 1910 and 1928.