Gambian Flag
National Flag of The Gambia
Gambian Flag Display

Quick Facts About The Gambia and Gambian Flag
- Adopted:
- Aspect Ratio:
- 2:3
- Capital:
- Banjul
- Population:
- Approximately 2.6 million (2023)
Flag Description
The Gambian flag consists of three horizontal stripes of red, blue, and green separated by narrow white fimbriations. Its vibrant colors reflect both the physical landscape and the cultural emphasis on unity and peace.
Symbolism & Meaning of the Gambian Flag
Red represents the sun and the savannah, as well as the resilience of the people during hard times. Blue symbolizes the Gambia River, which is central to the country’s livelihood, agriculture, and history of settlement. Green stands for forests, natural resources, and agricultural productivity. The white lines indicate peace, unity, and the narrow river that binds the nation together.
Historical Background of the Gambian Flag
Created ahead of independence from British colonial rule, the design was chosen by colonial civil servants and Gambian leaders during constitutional reforms in the early 1960s. It replaced the British Blue Ensign and became the national flag upon full independence on 18 February 1965. Since then, it has been a powerful symbol of sovereignty and national identity, flown at international events and domestic ceremonies as a representation of post-colonial pride.
Design Elements of the Gambian Flag
Featuring a bold color scheme, the flag has a red stripe at the top, a thinner white stripe, a central blue band twice the size of the stripes, another white fimbriation and a green stripe at the bottom—all in 2:3 proportion. The use of thin white separators enhances contrast and draws focus to the symbolic river across the landscape.
Usage & Protocol of the Gambian Flag
The Gambian flag is raised at national celebrations such as Independence Day (18 February) and during state ceremonies. Schools, public offices, and foreign missions display it alongside the flags of other nations. Official protocol requires clean, undamaged flags, flown from sunrise to sunset; during mourning, the flag is lowered to half-mast until official directives end the period of mourning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Gambian Flag represent?
Red represents the sun and the savannah, as well as the resilience of the people during hard times. Blue symbolizes the Gambia River, which is central to the country’s livelihood, agriculture, and history of settlement. Green stands for forests, natural resources, and agricultural productivity. The white lines indicate peace, unity, and the narrow river that binds the nation together.
When was the Gambian Flag adopted?
The The Gambia flag was adopted on 18 February 1965, marking an important milestone in the country's development as an independent nation.
What is the aspect ratio of the Gambian Flag?
The The Gambia flag has an aspect ratio of 2:3, which determines the proportional relationship between its width and height for official display purposes.