South Africa’s flag, adopted on 27 April 1994, displays a horizontal green ‘Y’ that converges from the hoist and divides red (top) and blue (bottom) fields, bordered by narrow white and yellow stripes with a black hoist triangle. Designed by Frederick Brownell, it symbolises convergence and unity in diversity after apartheid. Constitutional and statutory provisions regulate respectful display, co‑display, and ceremonial handling; no specific meanings are assigned to individual colours by law.
South Africa’s national flag is a graphic encapsulation of democratic transition: distinct streams converging into one path.
Prior national flags had reflected colonial and Afrikaner narratives—the 1928 “Union” flag combined British and Boer emblems. As the apartheid era ended, negotiators sought a new, unifying emblem. After a public design process stalled, State Herald Frederick Brownell produced the final layout: a green horizontal Y‑shape issuing from the hoist and splitting the field into red (upper) and blue (lower) panels, with a black hoist triangle separated by white and yellow pinstripes. The flag was proclaimed for use on 27 April 1994, the day of the first non‑racial elections.
The palette (black, green, yellow, white, red, blue) resonates with major political traditions—ANC colours and the historical European hues—yet the government intentionally refrained from assigning fixed meanings to each colour. Instead, the design as a whole signifies the convergence of diverse communities on a common constitutional path.
Protocol
is grounded in constitutional and statutory instruments: dignified raising and lowering; no ground contact; illumination if flown at night; half‑masting on designated mourning days; and strict order of precedence when co‑displayed with other flags. Guidance addresses correct proportions and colour values to prevent drift in manufacturing.
The flag flies daily on public buildings and anchors national ceremonies—Freedom Day (27 April), Heritage Day (24 September)—and international representation at summits and sporting events. It is protected against defacement and unauthorised commercial use, with educational materials reinforcing respect and proper handling.
Since 1994, the design has not changed, and it has become an instantly recognisable emblem of the “Rainbow Nation”: an inclusive, democratic society forged from a divided past.