The Flag of Kiribati
The flag of Kiribati features a horizontal bi-color of red over blue, with the blue half being slightly larger and containing three white wavy horizontal stripes. The upper half showcases a rising gold sun with 17 rays, positioned on the left, and a gold frigatebird flying over the sun. The design embodies the geographical and cultural aspects of the country, symbolizing the ocean, the islands, and the importance of the sun and the bird in Kiribati's traditions.
History of The Flag of Kiribati
The flag of Kiribati was officially adopted on July 12, 1979, upon the country's independence from the United Kingdom. The flag's design was chosen through a local competition, reflecting the nation's desire to have a symbol that was distinctly their own, differentiating from the colonial flags. The elements of the design, including the sun, the frigatebird (which plays a significant role in the local folklore), and the ocean, are deeply rooted in the I-Kiribati culture and environment. The 17 rays of the sun represent the 16 Gilbert Islands and Banaba (Ocean Island), which make up Kiribati. Over the years, the flag has remained unchanged, standing as a representation of Kiribati's identity, traditions, and aspirations.