Kenya Flag

Black represents the Kenyan people, red commemorates the bloodshed during the struggle for independence, and green reflects the country’s fertile land and natural wealth. The white fimbriations signify peace and purity. The Maasai shield and spears indicate the willingness to defend freedom and cultural heritage, drawing from traditional warrior symbolism. The design closely mirrors that of the Kenya African National Union, the principal independence movement.

Inspired by the Kenya African National Union’s flag, which combined black, red, and green with a shield and arrow, the current national flag was adopted upon independence on 12 December 1963. The transitional period retained the symbolism across government and military banners. Over time, specifications such as British Standard color codes and precise shade definitions were codified in the constitution to maintain consistency.

The flag is structured as a 2:3 rectangle with equal horizontal bands—black on top, red in the middle edged by narrow white stripes, and green at the bottom. At the center lies a red, white, and black Maasai shield with two crossed white spears. British Standard 2660 color codes define the precise hues of each stripe.

Kenyan flag protocol stipulates raising the flag at sunrise and lowering it at sunset on government buildings, schools, and embassies. It must be kept clean and intact, and fosters respect — damaged flags are replaced or respectfully destroyed. It is lowered to half‑mast during national mourning or official tragic events. The flag is used at national ceremonies, including Independence Day; associated military and presidential standards exist with specific variants.