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Flag of Malawi

Africa
20.7M
1964
Flag of Malawi
MW | 2:3

Symbolism

Black represents the African people, red represents the blood shed for independence, and green represents the natural wealth. The rising sun (kwacha) represents the dawn of freedom.

History

Adopted on July 6, 1964. It was briefly replaced in 2010 but restored in 2012 following widespread public preference for the original design and its historical meaning.

Construction

A 2:3 ratio. A horizontal tricolor of black, red, and green with a red rising sun centered on the black band.

Color Meanings

black: The indigenous people of the continent
red: The blood shed during the struggle for freedom
green: The natural wealth and lush vegetation of the land

Country Facts

Population
20.7M

1.3% of Africa

Capital
Lilongwe
Languages
English, Chewa
Continent
Africa
Subregion
Central Africa
Landlocked
Yes
Borders
Flag of Mozambique MozambiqueFlag of Tanzania TanzaniaFlag of Zambia Zambia
ISO 3166-1
MW

Flag Identification

Adopted
July 6, 1964
Proportions

2:3 (≈1.500)

23
Total Colors
3
Primary Layout
Horizontal bands
Key Symbols
Emblem

Influences

Pan-African colors and the 'Kwacha' (rising sun)

Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • The red rising sun must be centered in the black band
  • Horizontal bands must be of equal height

Practice

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