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Somalia Flag: Meaning and History

Embroidered flag patch — Somalia

History of the flag

Born from the merger of former Italian and British Somaliland, Somalia adopted its flag in 1954 and gained independence in 1960.

The flag pays tribute to the United Nations, which supported Somalia in its journey to independence.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • The star is a symbol of unity. Its five points represent the five regions where Somalis live: British Somaliland, Italian Somaliland, French Somaliland (Djibouti), the Ogaden region (Ethiopia), and northern Kenya.

  • Embodies freedom.

  • Represents peace.

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