Symbolism
The flag merges the colors of France (blue, white, red) with the Pan-African colors (green, yellow, red), representing a bridge between Europe and Africa. The yellow star represents independence and guidance.
History
Designed by Barthélemy Boganda, the territory's first president. Adopted on December 1, 1958, it has survived numerous regime changes as a symbol of national identity.
Construction
A 3:5 ratio. Four horizontal bands of blue, white, green, and yellow, intersected by a vertical red band. A yellow star is in the upper hoist.
Color Meanings
blue: Liberty and the sky
white: Purity and equality
green: Hope and the forests
yellow: Tolerance and mineral wealth
red: The blood shed for freedom and the bond between continents
Country Facts
- Population
- 6.5M
0.4% of Africa
- Capital
- Bangui
- Languages
- French, Sango
- Continent
- Africa
- Subregion
- Central Africa
- Landlocked
- Yes
- ISO 3166-1
- CF
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- December 1, 1958
- Designer
- Barthélemy Boganda
- Proportions
2:3 (≈1.500)
- De Jure Ratio
- 3:5
- Total Colors
- 5
- Primary Layout
- Horizontal bands
- Key Symbols
- Stars
Influences
A bridge between France and Africa
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- The yellow star must be in the upper hoist corner
- The red vertical band must cross the four horizontal bands
Practice
Think you know the flags of Africa? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.