The Republic of the Congo’s flag (adopted 18 August 1958; restored 10 June 1991) is a diagonal tricolour: a yellow band from lower hoist to upper fly, separating green (upper hoist) and red (lower fly). Green denotes forests and agriculture; yellow wealth and friendship; red courage and independence. A 1970–1991 emblematic red flag was replaced by the original. Ratio 2:3; geometry and colours are codified.
Congo‑Brazzaville first adopted its diagonal tricolour on 18 August 1958 as an autonomous republic within the French Community, then retained it at independence in 1960. The design sets a broad yellow diagonal band from lower hoist to upper fly, dividing a green upper hoist triangle from a red lower fly triangle. After 1970 the People’s Republic introduced a plain red flag with a device; in 1991 the 1958 tricolour was restored by law.
Symbolism
follows regional readings: green for forests and agriculture; yellow for mineral wealth and friendship; red for courage and the blood shed in the struggle for independence. The diagonal layout creates a recognisable profile among African flags while avoiding partisan insignia.
Specifications
prescribe a 2:3 ratio; the diagonal’s width relative to flag height, the intersection points, and colour references are fixed to ensure consistent manufacture. Protocol governs order of precedence, half‑masting, nocturnal illumination, and dignified retirement. Improper use is restricted by statute.
The restored flag appears across ministries, schools, and missions and figures centrally in national days; the history of replacement and restoration is taught in civic education as a lesson in constitutional continuity.