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Botswana Flag

Botswana flag represents racial harmony and water. Botswana sought to discourage any racial divisions, which was a common feature amongst most colonized nations.

Botswana made it its cornerstone feature to instill racial tolerance by expressing the fact in the nation's most significant symbol - the flag. The flag was adopted when Botswana attained independence on 30 September 1966.

In addition, Botswana has water scarcity problems. The country has challenges of drought that leave the country so dry with no water. Water is life. Hence the nation found it fitting to embolden the fact in the flag as a survival matter to be treated as a national concern.


The flag is made of blue, black and white bands that run horizontally. The blue colour stands for water, specifically rain water.

This is further emphasized by embossing PULA, the Setswana word for rain, in the coat of arms. PULA is the national motto used to invoke rain.

The black and white bands represent black and white people - or people of different ethnic groups and races. In Botswana the desire is that they should live in peace and harmony.

Botswana gained protection from Britain and therefore it was paramount that recognition is made of the inclusiveness of all members of society in Botswana, and on the importance to have people of all races living together in peace.


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