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Sao Tome and Principe Flag: Meaning and History

Embroidered flag patch — Sao Tome and Principe

History of the flag

In 1975, independence was achieved for this former Portuguese colony. São Tomé & Príncipe adopted its national flag with the aim of uniting the two islands. These Atlantic islands, located off the coast of Gabon, lie close to the equator.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • Two black stars for the two tropical volcanic Atlantic islands.

  • Color of belonging to the African continent.

  • Evokes the blood shed for independence.

  • Color of the lush vegetation.

  • Represents the country's wealth, especially in cocoa.

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