Mayotte Flag
National Flag of Mayotte
Mayotte Flag Display
Quick Facts About Mayotte and flag of Mayotte
- Adopted:
- Aspect Ratio:
- 2:3
- Capital:
- Mamoudzou
- Population:
- Approximately 300,000 (2023)
Mayotte Flag - Description
As an overseas department of France, Mayotte officially uses the French tricolor as its flag. No official regional flag exists. However, a white banner featuring Mayotte’s coat of arms is sometimes flown in local assembly use.
Mayotte Flag – Symbolism and Meaning
The French tricolor signifies Mayotte’s constitutional integration into the French Republic and the European Union. The local banner—a white flag with the coat of arms and department name—is used in cultural settings and by the departmental council. The arms display crescents, flowers, seahorses, and motto “RA HACHIRI” (We are vigilant) to reflect regional heritage.
Mayotte Flag - History and Origins
Mayotte voted to become an overseas department of France in 2009, formalized in 2011. Consequently, only the national French flag is legally permitted. The local coat-of-arms banner has been used informally in cultural, sporting, or municipal contexts but holds no official status.
Mayotte Flag - Design Elements
Officially identical to the French flag: vertical stripes blue-white-red at 2:3 ratio. The local banner, when displayed, is white with the shield of Mayotte and red lettering. It is used only in local contexts, not in official ceremonies.
Mayotte Flag - Usage Guidelines and Protocol
Only the French tricolor may be flown on government buildings and during official events. The local arms banner may appear in cultural or community gatherings but never in place of the French flag. The regional symbol is discouraged in legal or administrative contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Mayotte Flag represent?
The French tricolor signifies Mayotte’s constitutional integration into the French Republic and the European Union. The local banner—a white flag with the coat of arms and department name—is used in cultural settings and by the departmental council. The arms display crescents, flowers, seahorses, and motto “RA HACHIRI” (We are vigilant) to reflect regional heritage.
When was the Mayotte Flag adopted?
The Mayotte flag was adopted on Official: French tricolor since 15 February 1794 (as used since 2011 departmental status), marking an important milestone in the country's development as an independent nation.
What is the aspect ratio of the Mayotte Flag?
The Mayotte flag has an aspect ratio of 2:3, which determines the proportional relationship between its width and height for official display purposes.