Ghana Flag: Meaning and History

Embroidered flag patch — Ghana

History of the flag

Adopted in 1957 on the country's independence, the flag was used until 1959, and was then reinstated in 1966.

The black star is a tribute to pan-African activist Marcus Garvey and his shipping company, the Black Star Line.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • The black star represents the shooting star of freedom, and Ghanaians are nicknamed the ‘Black Stars’.

  • Red embodies the blood of the martyrs who died for independence.

  • Golden yellow represents mineral wealth.

  • For forests covering almost 40% of the national territory.