Flag of Kenya

Kenya Coat of Arms

All About The Kenyan Flag

Based on the original flag of KANU (Kenya African National Union), the Kenyan flag carries similar colors of black over red over green.

KANU is the party that led the fight for independence and freedom.

The flag of Kenya was adopted on December 12, 1963, celebrating the country's full independence from the United Kingdom.

The Kenyan flag is black-red-green tricolor with white bands dividing each color block. A Masai shield and two spears is centered over the colored blocks.

The colors of the flag are symbolic. Black represents the people of Kenya, red the blood and struggle for freedom. The green stands for Kenya's natural resources and agriculture, while white symobolizes peace and unity.

The flag of Kenya stands strong for the defence of freedom which is symbolized by the Masai shield and two spears which are traditional symbols of this main African tribe.

All About The Kenya Coat of Arms

Featuring two lions holding spears and an East African shield, the Kenya Coat of Arms is full of symbolism. The lions are the symbol of protection and the shield and spears stand for unity and defence of freedom.

It's colors represent the earth with green, the blood of the Mau Mau warriers with red and Kenya's rich soils with the black.

The lions are well known animals in Kenya's wildlife parks. On the red stripe in the middle of the shield is found a rooster holding an axe. Local customs say the rooster stands for a new and prosperous life.

The shield and lions stand on an outline image of famous mount Kenya with foreground examples of agricultural produce such as coffee, tea, pineapples, maize, sisal and pyrethrum.

The arms were granted on October 15, 1963. They are supported by a scroll that has the word "Harambee" which is Swahili for "all pulling together" or "all for one". It is said to be the cry of the local fishermen as they draw in their nets to shore. It's a common phrase used when a group effort is made to help a family in need, or to build a school or church.

Harambee is the motto of the KANU party and was used by the first President Jomo Kenyatta in his efforts to unite 60 tribes into one nation.

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