Overview
The national flag of Senegal is a vertical tricolour consisting of three equal bands — from the hoist: green, yellow and red — with a five-pointed green star placed at the geometric centre of the flag. In French it is commonly called le drapeau du Sénégal. General information and official references can be found under the entry Flag of Senegal.
Design and elements
The flag’s layout is simple: three upright stripes of colour with a centrally positioned star that straddles the middle yellow band but is centered on the whole flag. The three colours are often described individually — green, yellow and red — and are read together as a unified scheme rather than separate emblems.
Symbolism
The colours are part of the broader Pan‑African palette and carry layered meanings. Green is commonly associated with Islam, agriculture and hope; yellow signifies wealth, the sun and natural riches; red suggests sacrifice, determination and the blood shed for independence. The five-pointed green star is interpreted as a symbol of unity, guidance and national aspiration.
History and development
The flag emerged in the era of decolonisation and was adopted around the time Senegal became independent from France in 1960. Its form recalls earlier regional flags of West African movements and the short-lived Mali Federation; variations were introduced after the federation’s breakup, leading to the present, distinct design for Senegal.
Similar flags and variants
- The flag of Mali uses the same green-yellow-red vertical bands but without a central star.
- Other African flags employ the same colours in different orders or with different emblems, so comparisons often focus on the presence or absence of symbols such as stars.
- There are also official variants used for the presidency and naval ensigns that incorporate coats of arms or other insignia.
Use and protocol
The flag is displayed at government buildings, schools, diplomatic missions and during national celebrations and sporting events. Respectful handling and established flag protocols apply in formal contexts, and the flag functions as a primary symbol of national identity and international representation.