Flag of Malawi

This national banner features three equal horizontal stripes of black, red, and green. Centered on the uppermost black band is a red rising sun with 31 distinct rays. The overall proportions of the rectangular design follow a 2:3 aspect ratio.

Black represents the indigenous people of the African continent, while the red stripe signifies the blood shed during the struggle for freedom from colonial rule. Green symbolizes the country's lush natural vegetation and agricultural wealth. The rising sun, depicted with 31 rays, represents the dawn of hope and freedom for the continent of Africa.

Upon gaining independence from the United Kingdom on July 6, 1964, the nation first adopted this design based on the colors of the Malawi Congress Party. In 2010, President Bingu wa Mutharika replaced it with a version featuring a full white sun centered on a red stripe, though this change faced significant public opposition. Following his death, the administration of Joyce Banda officially restored the original 1964 flag on May 28, 2012.