OCTOBER 9, 2024 — Uganda commemorates 62 years of independence today, with national festivities taking place at Busikho Primary Teachers’ College grounds in Masafu town council, Busia district, according to Ugandan newspaper The Observer. This year’s theme is “Recommitment to Secure and Fortify Our Diversity.”
During British colonial rule, the crested crane was adopted as a symbol for Uganda to avoid using regional flags or totems, according to Encyclopedia Britannica. It became the primary national emblem and was incorporated into the flag established in May 1962, in preparation for independence on October 9 of that year.
The government of Uganda describes their flag as consisting of six equal horizontal bands in black, yellow, and red, with a central white disc that showcases the national symbol: a grey crowned crane oriented towards the hoist side. Each color carries significant meaning: black represents African peoples, yellow signifies Africa’s sunshine, and red symbolizes the bond of brotherhood among Africans, reflecting the lineage that connects them. According to the government, this distinctive flag was designed by Grace Ibingira, who served as the Minister of Justice.
Google is honoring this occasion with a Doodle featuring a waving flag.
Image: Ugandan soldiers with the national flag, 2009, public domain
