Flag of Ethiopia

Ethiopia Flag

Country Information

Sovereign StateYes
Country CodesET, ETH, 231
Official NameFederal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
ContinentAfrica
CapitalAddis Ababa
Government TypeFederal parliamentary republic
CurrencyEthiopian Birr (ETB)
Calling Code+251
Member OfUnited Nations, African Union, Intergovernmental Authority on Development
PopulationApprox. 117 million (as of 2023)
Total Area1,104,300 square kilometers
Highest PointRas Dashen (4,550 meters or 14,928 feet)
Lowest PointDanakil Depression (-125 meters or -410 feet)
GDP Per CapitaApprox. $850 (as of 2023)
Life ExpectancyApprox. 66 years (as of 2023)
Internet TLD.et

Ethiopia National Anthem

Wodefit Gesgeshi, Widd Innat Ityopp’ya (March Forward, Dear Mother Ethiopia)

Respect for citizenship is strong in our Ethiopia;
National pride is seen, shining from one side to another.
For peace, for justice, for the freedom of peoples,
In equality and in love we stand united.

Flags of Neighboring Countries

History of the Ethiopia Flag

The flag of Ethiopia, adopted on February 6, 1996, is steeped in rich history and symbolism, reflecting the nation’s heritage and diversity.

The flag comprises three horizontal stripes of green, yellow, and red from top to bottom, with a national emblem at the center. The green represents the land and its fertility, the yellow symbolizes peace and harmony, and the red stands for strength and the blood shed in defense of the country.

The national emblem in the center, introduced in the current flag, features a blue disc with a yellow star and rays emanating from the angles between each point. The star symbolizes unity among the diverse peoples of Ethiopia, and the rays represent the bright future of the country.

The colors of the Ethiopian flag have a historical significance dating back to the early 20th century and have inspired the “Pan-African” colors, influencing the flags of many African nations. The green-yellow-red tricolor was first used in modern Ethiopia during the reign of Emperor Menelik II.

Throughout its history, the Ethiopian flag has undergone several changes, especially in its emblem. However, the core tricolor design has remained a constant symbol of Ethiopia’s identity. The flag is a source of pride and patriotism for Ethiopians, representing their rich history, struggles for freedom, and aspirations for unity and prosperity. It is a national symbol that unites Ethiopians in the country and across the world, embodying the spirit of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.