African Shield Flags: Kenya and Swaziland

The shield and spear design ethos is still around in Africa, the only place in the world national flags still represent those images. And in Africa, the two countries rocking them are Kenya and Swaziland.

Here's Kenya:

Made official in 1963, the black represents the black majority population, the red is for the blood spilled during their struggle for independence, the green represents the fertile land of Kenya, and the white between them were added later and represent peace. Centered is a traditional Maasi shield and two spears, traditional weapons. The Maasi are the main ethnic group in Kenya and northern Tanzania.

Here's Swaziland:

Adopted in 1968, the red stands for past battles, the blue for peace and stability, the yellow for the natural resources of the land, and the centered shield and spears represent protection from enemies. The black and white on the shield is to show that the black and white populations can live together in peace. The shield is being supported by a staff, and adorned with feathers.

I think the Kenyan flag is more iconic and well known, representing a greater idea of African nationhood. Also, I was always mesmerized by the fact in the world there was a country called Swaziland and a country called Switzerland. One used a colorful shield design, and one used a plus sign, and that's where my concept of the countries would come from, from an old encyclopedia with world flags all lined up alphabetically.