Who designed the Uganda National Flag?
The Uganda Flag was designed by Grace Ibingira who was serving as Uganda’s Minister of Justice at the time. It was adopted on 9th October, 1962 when Uganda gained independence from the United Kingdom and is one of the 3 National symbols along with the Uganda Coat of Arms and the National anthem.
Cecil Todd, a professor at the Margaret Trowel School of Industrial and Fine Art at Makerere University contributed to the design that would eventually become the Uganda Flag.
What does the Uganda flag look like?
The Uganda flag is made up of 6 horizontal stripes of black, yellow and red. At the centre of the flag enclosed in a circle is Uganda’s National bird named the Crested Crane.
Meaning of the Uganda flag bird
The Crested crane is adored for it gentle demeanor symbolising the humility of the Ugandan people. Its depicted with a raised leg to symbolise the forward progress of Uganda as a country.
Meaning of the colors on the Uganda Flag
Each color depicted on the Uganda flag symbolizes a specific aspect about Uganda as a nation and Africa at large.
- Black: Symbolises common heritage of Ugandans and africans as a whole with predominantly black complexion
- Yellow: Symbolises the abundant sunshine enjoyed by Uganda all year round as an Equatorial Country
- Red: Symbolises Brotherhood amongst ugandans as red is the color of blood.
What flags did Uganda use before Independence?
Before gaining independence, Uganda used a series of flags from the Buganda kingdom flag which was used in the precolonial period to the Provisional flag which was used a few months before independence.
Conclusion
The Uganda flag has a rich history featuring a series of iterations which resulted in the final version we see and use today. To learn more about the story behind the Uganda flag as well as its usage in modern day Uganda, checkout our more comprehensive guide: History, Design, Symbolism and Meaning behind the Uganda Flag
Planning a trip to Africa? Explore our expertly curated tour packages to experience the incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality that make Uganda truly the Pearl of Africa.
Interested in what else Uganda has to offer, check out the rest of our travel guides: