Ethiopia .et

Meaning of the Flag

The flag of Ethiopia (Amharic: የኢትዮጵያ ሰንደቅ ዐላማ) consists of a green, yellow, and red tricolour with the national emblem, a golden pentagram on a blue disc, superimposed at the centre. While the colours green, yellow, and red in combination held symbolic importance since at least the early 17th century, the modern tricolour was first adopted on 11 October 1897 by Menelik II, and the present flag on 31 October 1996. To commemorate its adoption in 1897, Ethiopia celebrates Flag Day on the first Monday of the month of Tikimt (September–October). The star testifies to Ethiopia's bright future, while the yellow rays which it emits are equidistant and are said to represent the equality of all Ethiopians regardless of race, creed, or sex.

Meaning of Flag Colors

Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Gold

Flag History

1. 1897–1974
   

   While the colours green, yellow, and red in combination held symbolic importance since at least the early 17th century, the modern tricolour was first adopted on 11 October 1897 by Menelik II, and the present flag on 31 October 1996.
2. 1913
   The letter of Menelik's name was removed from the flag after his death in 1913.
3. 1996
   

   Pantone 347C Pantone Yellow C Pantone 032C Pantone 2728 Prior to 1996, the plain green, yellow and red banner was commonly used as a civil flag.
4. 1996–2009
   

   While the colours green, yellow, and red in combination held symbolic importance since at least the early 17th century, the modern tricolour was first adopted on 11 October 1897 by Menelik II, and the present flag on 31 October 1996.
5. 1897–present
   

   Current national flag, in use since 1897.

Location