Learn about the flag of Mauritania

The flag of Mauritania consists of a horizontal tricolor design, with the top stripe being green, the middle stripe gold, and the bottom stripe red. The proportions of the flag are approximately one-to-two.

The green stripe, situated at the top of the flag, represents hope and the country's agricultural wealth. It symbolizes the fertile land and forests found in Mauritania, which contribute to the nation's prosperity and sustainability. Green also holds significance in Islamic culture, reflecting Mauritania's predominantly Muslim population and its adherence to Islamic values.

The center stripe of the flag is gold, representing the sun and desert sands. This color choice signifies the country's vast Sahara Desert, which covers a significant portion of Mauritania's landscape. Gold represents the strength, resilience, and determination of the Mauritanian people as they navigate the challenges posed by their arid environment. It also pays tribute to the country's historical ties to the ancient empires of Ghana, Mali, and Songhai, which were renowned for their wealth and prosperity.

The red stripe at the bottom of the flag symbolizes the bloodshed and sacrifice made during Mauritania's struggle for independence from French colonial rule. It serves as a reminder of the nation's fight for freedom and the valor displayed by its citizens. Red stands for courage, vitality, and the determination to defend national sovereignty and preserve the well-being of the Mauritanian people.

The three colors of the flag—green, gold, and red—are also significant in terms of pan-African unity. They are shared by several other African nations, such as Cameroon, Guinea, and Senegal. These countries adopted similar color schemes to highlight their solidarity, common heritage, and pursuit of collective progress.

The national flag of Mauritania, officially hoisted on April 1, 1959, was initially introduced when Mauritania was still a French colony. It underwent minor modifications following the country's independence in 1960. The current design, with the addition of a red stripe, was adopted on August 15, 2017, after a national referendum.

The flag's simple yet powerful design reflects the country's values, history, and natural environment. The vibrant colors evoke a sense of pride and unity among the Mauritanian people, serving as a visual representation of their national identity.