Flag of Mauritania

Africa

4.9M

2017

MR | 2:3

Symbolism

Green represents Islam and hope, while yellow (gold) represents the Sahara Desert. The crescent and star are symbols of Islam. The red stripes honor those who died for the country.

History

The original green flag was adopted in 1959. In 2017, two red stripes were added following a national referendum to honor the country's martyrs and defenders.

Construction

A 2:3 ratio. A green field with two red horizontal bands and a gold crescent and star in the center.

Color Meanings

green: Islam, hope, and the fertility of the south

yellow: The sands of the Sahara Desert and mineral wealth

red: The blood shed by those who fought for independence

Country Facts

Population: 4.9M

0.3% of Africa
Capital: Nouakchott
Languages: Arabic
Continent: Africa
Subregion: West Africa
Landlocked: No
Borders: Algeria Mali Senegal
ISO 3166-1: MR

Flag Identification

Adopted: August 15, 2017
Proportions: 2:3 (≈1.500)
Total Colors: 3
Primary Layout: Horizontal bands
Key Symbols: Crescent, Emblem, Stars

Influences

Islamic symbols and the geography of the Sahara

Related flags

Flag Protocol

The yellow crescent and star must be centered on the green field
The two red stripes must be at the top and bottom edges

Practice

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