Official Palette
Symbolism
Green represents the fertility of the land, yellow represents hope and justice, and red represents the sacrifices of the people. The central emblem features a pentagram representing the unity of the Ethiopian people, with rays of sun symbolizing prosperity.
History
The green, yellow, and red colors are the original Pan-African colors, having inspired the flags of many newly independent African nations. The current flag with the star emblem was adopted on October 31, 1996.
Construction
A 1:2 ratio. A horizontal tricolor of green, yellow, and red with a blue disc containing a yellow pentagram centered.
Color Meanings
green: Fertility of the land, labor, and development
yellow: Hope, justice, and religious freedom
red: Sacrifice for freedom and heroism
blue: Peace and democracy (the disc)
Country Facts
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- October 31, 1996
- Designer
- Abebe Alambo
- Proportions
1:2
- Total Colors
- 4
- Primary Layout
- Horizontal bands
- Key Symbols
- Emblem, Stars
Influences
Pan-African colors
Solomonic dynasty
Flags with resemblance
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- The yellow pentagram must be centered on the blue disc
- The rays of the sun must represent prosperity and the radiant future
Practice
Think you know the flags of Africa? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.