National Flags With the Most Colours
Explore highly colourful national flags and South Africa's six-colour design, while looking at why colour records depend on how colours are counted.
South Africa — six colours
South Africa's flag contains black, gold, green, white, chilli red and blue. The country's official specification lists all six colours, making it a standout among national flags.
A flag born in 1994
The modern South African flag was first used on 27 April 1994. It was designed by former State Herald Fred Brownell, and the government describes the colours as a synopsis of important elements of the country's flag history.
The famous green Y
The central green Y-shaped form is the key structural feature of the design. The South African government says it can be interpreted as the convergence of diverse elements within society and a road ahead in unity.
Why colour records are tricky
Counting colours sounds simple but can become complicated when a flag contains a detailed coat of arms or tiny shades. The safest comparisons therefore state exactly what is being counted — the main flag design, official colour specifications, or every colour in an emblem.
Other colourful national flags
Belize is famous for its detailed coat of arms, while several African, Caribbean and Pacific flags use four or more strong colours. A high colour count often reflects a flag's history and symbolism rather than a desire simply to be decorative.