The Guinea-Bissau flag features three primary colors: Black, Red, Yellow, Green. The table below showcases the common and popular codes for these colors in HEX, RGB, and CMYK formats, along with Pantone (PMS), RAL, and NCS (Natural Color System) references. Remember, HEX and RGB codes are ideal for digital projects and web design (including HTML and CSS), while CMYK values are tailored for printing purposes.
The flag of Guinea-Bissau is a vibrant and meaningful symbol that reflects the country's history, cultural heritage, and aspirations for unity and progress. Its design features two horizontal stripes and a vertical stripe along with a prominent black star, each element carrying significant symbolic meanings.
Design and Elements:
Background:
- Colors: The flag consists of two horizontal stripes (yellow and green) and one vertical stripe (red) with a black star.
- Proportions: The flag’s width-to-length ratio is 1:2.
Stripes:
- Red Vertical Stripe: Occupies the left side of the flag.
- Yellow Horizontal Stripe: Occupies the top half of the remaining field.
- Green Horizontal Stripe: Occupies the bottom half of the remaining field.
Black Star:
- Position: Centered within the red vertical stripe.
- Design: A single black five-pointed star.
Symbolism:
Red Vertical Stripe:
- Representation: The red color symbolizes the blood shed by those who fought for the country’s independence from Portuguese colonial rule. It represents the struggle, sacrifice, and courage of the Bissau-Guinean people.
Yellow Horizontal Stripe:
- Representation: The yellow color signifies the country’s wealth in natural resources, particularly its abundant mineral resources. It also symbolizes the sun, which is a source of life and energy.
Green Horizontal Stripe:
- Representation: The green color represents the lush vegetation and agricultural wealth of Guinea-Bissau. It signifies hope, growth, and the country’s fertile lands.
Black Star:
- Representation: The black star stands for African unity and solidarity. It reflects Guinea-Bissau’s connection to the wider Pan-African movement and its aspirations for unity among African nations.
Historical Context:
Adoption:
- The flag of Guinea-Bissau was officially adopted on September 24, 1973, when the country declared independence from Portugal. The design of the flag was influenced by the Pan-African movement and closely resembles the flag of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), which led the fight for independence.
Pan-African Colors:
- The colors red, yellow, and green are known as the Pan-African colors and are used in the flags of many African countries. These colors were popularized by the Ethiopian flag, which became a symbol of African independence and pride.
Overall Significance:
The flag of Guinea-Bissau is a powerful symbol of national pride, unity, and identity. Its colors and design elements encapsulate the country’s natural beauty, rich resources, and the sacrifices made for its independence. Displayed during national celebrations, official events, and international gatherings, the flag represents Guinea-Bissau’s sovereignty and its place in the global community.
The flag serves as a unifying symbol for the people of Guinea-Bissau, emphasizing their shared history, cultural pride, and the values of courage, prosperity, and environmental stewardship. It underscores Guinea-Bissau’s journey from colonialism to independence and its ongoing commitment to development and national unity.