The flag of Sudan consists of three equal horizontal stripes of red, white, and black, with a green triangle on the hoist side. This design, known as the "pan-Arab colors," reflects Sudan's identity as an Arab and African nation.
Sudan information
| National Flag Day | — |
| Sovereign state | Yes |
| Official name | Republic of the Sudan |
| Capital | Khartoum |
| Population | 43,849,260 |
| Area | 1,886,068 km² |
| Currency | Sudanese pound (SDG) |
| Language | Arabic, English |
| Continent | Africa |
| Region | Northeast Africa |
| Subregion | Horn of Africa |
| Borders | Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Libya, Central African Republic, Chad, South Sudan |
| Timezone | Central Africa Time (CAT) UTC+2 |
| Calling code | +249 |
| Top-level domain | .sd |
History of the Sudanese Flag
The current design of the Sudanese flag was adopted on May 20, 1970, following the coup d'état led by Jaafar Nimeiry. It replaced the previous blue-yellow-green tricolor flag that had been used since independence in 1956. The new design was chosen to align Sudan more closely with other Arab nations and to represent the country's diverse heritage.
Symbolism and Design of the Sudanese Flag
Each element of the Sudanese flag carries symbolic meaning:
- The red stripe represents the struggle for independence and the sacrifices made by the Sudanese people.
- The white stripe symbolizes peace, light, and optimism.
- The black stripe represents the people of Sudan and their African heritage.
- The green triangle symbolizes Islam, prosperity, and the agricultural wealth of the country.
Usage and Significance of the Sudanese Flag
The Sudanese flag is a powerful symbol of national identity and unity. It is displayed on government buildings, during national celebrations such as Independence Day on January 1, and at international events. The flag represents Sudan's complex history, its position as a bridge between the Arab and African worlds, and its aspirations for peace and prosperity.
Interesting Facts About the Sudanese Flag
- Sudan's flag shares the pan-Arab colors with several other nations in the region, reflecting its cultural and historical ties to the Arab world.
- The current flag design has remained unchanged despite significant political changes in Sudan, including the secession of South Sudan in 2011.
- The green triangle in the Sudanese flag is similar to the one in the flag of Palestine, symbolizing solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
- During the 2019 Sudanese Revolution, the flag became a powerful symbol of the pro-democracy movement, often seen in the hands of protesters demanding political change.