Flag of Equatorial Guinea

National flag adopted at independence in 1968: horizontal green-white-red bands with a blue triangle at the hoist and a coat of arms featuring a silk‑cotton tree and six stars, symbolizing the country’s geography and ideals.

The national flag of Equatorial Guinea was formally adopted at independence from Spain in 1968. It combines a tricolour field with a hoist triangle and a central coat of arms. The design is intended to express the country’s natural wealth, political aspirations and the link between its mainland and island territories. More information can be found via the Flag of Equatorial Guinea.

Design and symbolism

The flag consists of three horizontal stripes—green (top), white (middle) and red (bottom)—with a blue isosceles triangle at the hoist. Centered on the white stripe is the national coat of arms, which depicts a silk‑cotton (Ceiba) tree beneath a semicircle of six golden six‑pointed stars and a scroll bearing the national motto Unidad, Paz, Justicia (Unity, Peace, Justice).

Common symbolic interpretations include:

Green: the country’s forests, agriculture and natural resources.
White: peace and harmony among the people.
Red: the struggle for independence and the sacrifices made.
Blue triangle: the sea and maritime links between the mainland and islands.
Ceiba tree: national identity, shelter and historical roots; the six stars represent the mainland and the principal islands.

History and development

The flag’s colours and motifs date from the period immediately surrounding independence on 12 October 1968. The adoption combined regional and national symbols to represent a newly sovereign state emerging from colonial rule. The basic arrangement has persisted, although official specifications and the rendering of the coat of arms have been refined in various government documents.

Usage and variants

The full national flag with coat of arms is used for official government purposes and at national ceremonies. Variants for different functions—such as presidential standards, naval ensigns or civil versions—exist in practice, where proportions or the presence of the coat of arms may differ depending on protocol and context.

Notable facts

The flag is one of the most visible state symbols, appearing on government buildings, passports and diplomatic missions. Its elements intentionally combine geographic reference (mainland and islands), natural imagery and a concise motto to convey national unity and the aims of the republic.