Explorer

Flag of Ethiopia

Africa
138.9M
1996
Flag of Ethiopia
ET | 1:2

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

Population
138.9M

9.0% of Africa

Capital
Addis Ababa
Languages
Amharic
Continent
Africa
Subregion
Horn of Africa
Landlocked
Yes
ISO 3166-1
ET

Flag Identification

Adopted
October 31, 1996
Designer
Abebe Alambo
Proportions

1:2

12
Total Colors
4
Primary Layout
Horizontal bands
Key Symbols
Emblem, Stars

Influences

Pan-African colors
Solomonic dynasty

Flags with resemblance

Visually close designs — compare colors and emblems, or try similarities mode.

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

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