Flag of Malawi

What the flag means

The Protected Flag, Emblems and Names Act of 1964 explains the symbols: black for the people of Africa, red for the blood of Africa's freedom martyrs, green for Malawi's evergreen nature, and the rising sun for the dawn of hope and freedom for Africa.

History

The flag was adopted when Nyasaland became independent as Malawi on 6 July 1964. In 2010 the government of President Bingu wa Mutharika brought in a new version, approved on 29 July 2010, with the stripes reordered and a white sun in the centre. Much of the public opposed it. Under President Joyce Banda, Parliament voted in May 2012 to return to the 1964 flag.

Earlier flags of Malawi

1. 2010–2012Red, black and green stripes with a white 45-ray sun in the centre

Flags of Malawi's neighbours

• Mozambique
• Tanzania
• Zambia