Country profile: Kenya

The flag of Kenya is based on that of the Kenya African National Union (KANU), the leading party of the independence movement, which was black, red and green. Two narrow white bands were added, together with a Maasai shield and two crossed spears.

It was raised for the first time on 12 December 1963, the day Kenya, a former British colony, became independent. That date has become the national holiday, Jamhuri Day (‘Republic Day’).

The flag has not changed since independence. The 2010 Constitution lists it among the national symbols and describes its colours.

Each element of the Kenyan flag has a precise meaning:

• Black: the people of Kenya.
• Red: the blood shed during the struggle for independence.
• Green: the land and the country's natural wealth.
• White: peace and unity.
• Shield and spears: the defence of freedom and of everything listed above.

On independence day, 12 December 1963, a team of climbers led by the Kenyan Kisoi Munyao planted the new flag at the top of Mount Kenya, the country's highest mountain, which gave the nation its name.

The shield on the flag is inspired by the traditional shields of the Maasai, a pastoralist people of southern Kenya and northern Tanzania.

Kenyan distance runners, Olympic champions and winners of the major marathons, have made this flag one of the most familiar sights on athletics podiums.