The flag of Côte d'Ivoire, also known as Ivory Coast, is a tricolor consisting of three equal vertical bands of orange, white, and green. Prior to adopting the current flag, Côte d'Ivoire was part of French West Africa and flew the French Tricolore. The adoption of a new, unique flag was an important step in asserting the country’s independence and establishing its national identity. This flag was officially adopted on December 3, 1959, just prior to the country gaining its independence from France in 1960.

Description and Symbolism

The flag features three vertical stripes of equal width. From left to right, the colors are orange, white, and green.

• Orange: The orange stripe represents the savannahs located in the northern part of the country, as well as the country’s fertility. It also symbolizes the courage of the nation’s fight for independence.

• White: The white stripe stands for peace, unity, and tranquility. It reflects the country's desire for harmony and its commitment to dialogue and consensus.

• Green: The green stripe symbolizes the forests of the southern part of Côte d'Ivoire and the coastal areas. It also represents hope for a bright future.

Conclusion

The flag of Côte d'Ivoire stands as a symbol of the nation’s rich history, its struggle for independence, and its commitment to peace, unity, and prosperity. The use of Pan-African colors reflects a broader sense of identity and solidarity with neighboring countries, while the specific choice of colors captures the unique characteristics and aspirations of the Ivorian people.